NRC: Country out for NRC clean sweep

Sat, Oct 22, 2016, 6:00 AM
Marty Cambridge
by Marty Cambridge
Paddy Ryan will lead the NSW Country Eagles out in front of his hometown in the grand final of the Buildcorp NRC.

The NSW Country Eagles have three pieces of silverware already in 2016 but they would trade it all for the biggest prize.

They’re the current holders of the minor premiership, Benn Robinson Bell and Horan-Little Shield, the Buildcorp NRC trophy the only thing missing from their cabinet.

“I don’t think anyone goes into next season asking who holds the Horan-Little Shield or the Benn Robinson Bell,” skipper, Paddy Ryan said. 

“They’re great trophies and those three guys are fantastic players and great servants to Australian rugby. 

“But at the end of the day what you really want is the big one.

“Those things (trophies) while they’re special, they’re not quite as significant as the main one (Buildcorp NRC trophy).”


The hometown hero from Tamworth and Super Rugby veteran making the most of what is a rare opportunity to play in a competition decider.

“It’s one of the best weeks (grand final week) you get in footy and I’ve really tried to soak it up,” Ryan said.

“It’s a special week and a special day.

“There’s a lot of guys in the squad who haven’t played many grand finals which is going to be special for them and make it even more special for all of us.” 

Today's triple header of Rugby action starts with the Wallaroos and New Zealand at 3:05pm, the Bledisloe Cup at 5:35pm, and then Buildcorp NRC Final at 7:45pm. All live on FOXSPORTS 502 (All times AEDT).

Share
Super Rugby Pacific Round Nine Preview
New Wallabies assistant Geoff Parling is ready to turn around the team's fortunes. Photo: Nick Holland/RA Media
‘We can have a great force’: Parling eager to bring best out of Wallabies ahead of potential Lions reunion
Vale Dick McGruther: A Respected Administrator, Innovator and Friend of Rugby
Bryant backed to fill backrow void as Reds embrace Highlanders challenge