Report from: Steven Williams
08/02/03

St George Illawarra Dragons have defeated Brothers-Valleys 40-10 in a trial match at Perry Park, Brisbane tonight.

Best described as a shambles, Saints led early on but were unable to make much of an impression afterwards as they struggled to maintain possession in the four-quarter encounter.

The only highlight was new halfback, Brett Firman who showed supporters a little of what to expect in 2003 with an inspiring kicking and passing game. Firman scored a hat trick of tries and set up a number of try scoring movements in front of a crowd of about 3,000 people.

Brothers-Valleys, as always, never gave up and showed some flair out wide and with the assistance of an 11-2 penalty count, were able to keep the visitors honest.

After 20 minutes, St George led 14-0 and extended their lead to 30-6 at half time. But the locals came back to level the third quarter with six points each to take the score to 36-6. In a messy final session, Brothers-Valleys matched the Dragons once again with both teams scoring a try and at fulltime, the Dragons were unconvincing winners, 40-10.

Brothers-Valleys: Steve Ware, Steve Shilvock, Wade Turner, Trent Flood, Odell Harris, P Savage, Pat Dall, Scott McGuire (c), Carn Chase, Luke Dunphy, Damian Jentz, Chris Bax, Luke Trahair. Int: Tim Stuart, Mathew Sparke, Darren Crilly, Aaron Denny

St George-Illawarra: Amos Roberts, Lee Bennett, Mark Christensen, Chris Nero, John Wilshere, Damien Bower, Keiran Kerr, Jason Ellem, Peter Ellis, Ryan Tandy, Robbie Simpson, Ryan Powell, Gary McBride. Int: Brett White, Steven Southern, Ryan Rogers, Ryan Cullen, Reece Wellington, Brett Firman, Dean Young

[pics: click here]