Special report by Kiama High's Peter Quine, who coaches the Under 14s. Photos by Brian Scott.

History was created at Chittick Oval yesterday! Kiama High School's strong rugby league success in recent years continues, with the Under 14s and Open Rugby League sides moving into the state CHS Final together.

The Under 14s defeated Rutherford HS 18-16 in a nail biter for the Buckley Shield, whilst the Open’s defeated Callaghan College 34-14 in the University Shield.

The final for both teams will be played at Cessnock Sports ground on September 13, with their opponents still to be decided.

The double header was played in front of Years 8, 11 and 12 Kiama High students as well as many local community members who came to watch our local talent.

The first half of the Under 14s was extremely evenly matched, with momentum constantly changing. Our boys went into half time down 16-10. Through sheer determination and attitude they were able to hold the opposition scoreless for the second half. Phoenix Johns was a standout scoring all the home side’s three tries.

The last four minutes gave me, as coach, many nervous moments and a couple more grey hairs as the boys were required to defend their try line on three repeat sets. Along with Phoenix, Reed Palmer, Sam Guevara and Jett Brookfield were standouts for the home side.

The Opens played Callaghan College, who they only played at Bathurst two weeks ago to clinch the Country Cup for Kiama High.

Our local boys got off to a flying to start to score the three opening tries of the match, through excellent teamwork and ball movement, before the much bigger opposition clawed their way back with a couple of tries before half time to leave the score 18-10.

The second half tested coach Nathan Ford’s nerve and strategy, as he lost key players through injury.

Our players resilience and experience shone through to display true class to run away with the second half and secure the win 34-14.. Hayden Buchanan, Jasper Scobie, Dylan Egan, Jack Quine and Caleb Hall were the best for the Opens on the day.

Whilst Kiama High has won the Buckley Shield twice in the past 10 years, University Shield success goes back many years.

UNDER 14 BUCKLEY SHIELD SEMI-FINAL

Kiama High School 18 d Rutherford High School 16

UNIVERSITY SHIELD - OPEN RUGBY LEAGUE COMPETITION SEMI-FINAL

Kiama High School 34 d Callaghan College Jesmond 14 

Brian Scott regularly covers local sport for The Bugle. Check out his reports on our Sports page.