October 1, 2020

UOW Mallee Bulls finish 2020 season undefeated

Outstanding performances by Mallee Bulls sees the team finish second on the ladder

The Illawarra Rugby Season 2020 has come to a satisfying conclusion for the University of Wollongong Mallee Bulls, who made it through the season undefeated, playing in the Illawarra District Rugby Union’s second grade competition.

The season got off to a late start due to COVID-19 restrictions with UOW fielding a team made up of present and past students and players who have had a long association with the club.

Led by captain Mitch Bell, the Mallee Bulls kicked off the season with an inspirational 52 to 19 win against the Campbelltown Harlequins.

Drawn games were a feature of the season, though, with the Mallee Bulls’ nail-biting performances against Avondale and the Vikings both ending in hard-fought draws. A third draw was the result of the Shamrocks insisting their rugby ground was unfit for playing.

The Mallee Bulls also recorded wins against Camden (45 – 0), Tech Waratahs (30-26), Shoalhaven (24-7) and Kiama (50-12).

The Mallee Bulls finished the season second on the ladder (behind the Vikings) with the best for-and-against percentage in the competition.

Outstanding players for the Mallee Bulls included Lemeki Qesa, Jack Thurtell, the Conyer brothers, Bunga, captain Mitch Bell and Nick Halliday among others.

Club veterans Chris Crous and Tomas Fenualelei also showed they still had it in them for a few minutes on the field and inspired the team with their high-energy and dedication to the spirit of the game.

Rugby stalwart Bob Wheway made his presence felt throughout the season and inspired the teams with his expertise and the experience of many years he has dedicated to the game.

After a highly competitive season the UOW Mallee Bulls are well placed to celebrate the club’s upcoming 60th anniversary in 2021.