Ag College got off to the perfect start to the Southern Inland season after enjoying a rare victory in Griffith.
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There was little between both teams throughout the game, but it was Aggies who held on for a 28-24 win at Exies Oval.
The university club has struggled to win against the Blacks away from home and new coach Will Mitchell was thrilled with how his team held strong at the end.
“We are stoked,” Mitchell said.
“Our guys showed a lot of maturity up by four points with about 15 minutes to go.
“I said we had to hold the ball for the majority of the time and they did.
“They defended when they need to so it was a very good result.
“The drought is broken finally.”
Mitchell doesn’t believe the club has tasted success in Griffith in over a decade.
He hopes the win will show the team they can perform away from Beres Ellwood Oval.
“I think it builds a lot of belief in our young blokes,” Mitchell said.
“First of all that they can win away, they believe in each other and are enjoying the footy that they are playing.
“it just builds confidence.”
The teams almost went try to try throughout the game.
Joe Hamblin had a perfect debut for the club, scoring the opening try with his first touch.
However, Mitchell thought some poor discipline let the Blacks into the game during the first half.
Taking advantage, Griffith led 17-14 at the break before Ag College were able to get their noses in front in the second half.
“It was a real grind,” Mitchell said.
“There were plenty of mistakes, which is what you expect from the first round of footy, but it is good to see the boys can pick themselves up as a group and move forward.
“The next thing they do is positive.
“Believe me there is still plenty to work on, but the belief is in the group for sure.”
Halfback Jeremy Lim was a standout for Ag College.
He proved excellent service from the breakdown and controlled the attack of Aggies.
Mitchell was impressed with hooker Sam Scarlett.
Scarlett got through plenty of work up with middle of the field while Cameron Duffy put in a strong effort in the back line.
Not only was he strong defensively, but he lead the back line around the park.
Mitchell also expects the Blacks will be a bigger threat this season after missing out on the top five last year.
After the Easter bye Ag College will have another tough test when they play hosts to Leeton on April 22.