MOREE Bulls first-grade ploughed through heavy going at Inverell last Saturday to convincingly beat the Highlanders 19-10 at Inverell Rugby Park at the home club’s old boys’ day.

About 30mm of rain drenched Inverell the day before, with both sides trying to lift in the muddy conditions.

Moree suffered a rare defeat the previous week – 41-22 to Quirindi – and a form turnaround was needed.

A few words from coach Mick Grant about positivity, defence and ball control midway through the game made that happen in the sodden conditions.

Moree’s Angus Smith reaches skyward in a lineout against Inverell Highlanders (Image courtesy of Zelch Cikota).

Grant was pleased to return home from Highlander country with a win in the bag.

“Inverell are a good side, and you always know you are in for a good battle with them,” Grant said.

“It was tough win, but a win we had to get after the previous week’s loss.”

Lewis Lindberg made his first-grade debut memorable when crossing after 11 minutes of play to give Moree an early lead.

The Moree forwards made some great metres up the middle of the paddock, with Jono Spain crossing for a try, converted by Ben Williams.

The Highlanders crept a little closer, with a successful penalty goal to Marcos Savarino just before half-time.

Moree Bulls went to the break with a 12-3 lead.

Bulls club president David Watts said Inverell built up momentum in the second half.

“They had a good crack at the Moree line for about 20 minutes and eventually crossed over for a try,” Watts said.

After a Savarino conversion to Inverell, Moree led 12-10, and hit back through a brilliant running-rugby try to Mitch Adams.

Ben Williams made it two from two with a soft conversion, giving Moree a 19-10 lead.

“That’s where the score stayed after some great defence by the Moree boys,” Watts said.

The Bulls next travel to Narrabri on June 21 for a grand-final rematch with the Blue Boars – and redemption after last year’s 31-27 loss at Dangar Park.

Moree’s best were Angus Roberts (3), Duncan Woods (2) and Mitch Copeman (1).

In the other Central North first-grade match at the weekend, Narrabri Blue Boars beat Tamworth Pirates at Dangar Park, 48-5.

Narrabri’s Charlie Radford crossed for three tries, James Baker landed two and one each went to Sam Knight, captain Will McDonnell and vice-captain Jack Maunder.

Pirates’ only points were a try by Brandon Parry.