IT was 18 months in the making but it only took the Greta Branxton Colts' ladies league tag side two matches to notch its maiden win.
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The Alex Kowalski-coached outfit knocked over the Hamilton Ducks 18-10 in the second round of the Newcastle and Hunter Community Rugby League competition on Saturday, August 1, following a hard-fought 20-0 loss to Maitland United in the season opener.
The squad originally formed a couple of months prior to the 2019 kick-off date in Bengalla Hunter Valley Group 21 however, due to previous work commitments, the club had to reluctantly withdraw the team.
But, the players continued to train one day a week without enjoying actual game time.
Now, that hard work has paid off.
"I was extremely happy with the girls' effort," Kowalski said.
"They deserved it [victory].
"Even the hit-out against Maitland United was pretty impressive, especially with no reserves on the bench.
"We've only got three or four girls who have played before.
"So, this is a great result in just their second-ever match.
"Our main goal at the start of the year was to win a game.
"We'll have to set another one now.
"The biggest challenge, for us, will come when we meet three-time premiers, the Aberglasslyn Ants.
"Although, to be honest, we're not too sure who we are playing this weekend as the draw keeps changing."
The Colts led 10-6 at the break, thanks partly to a brilliant 95m kick return try from Beth Jordan.
Terri Van Wyk dived over for Greta Branxton's next four-pointer, which she also converted.
A Jorja Connolly "show and go" extended the side's advantage in the third quarter before Van Wyk scampered through a hole to put the icing on the cake in the final term.
"While we're thrilled with the victory, we're not getting ahead of ourselves either," Kowalski said.
"This season will be a learning curve for the girls, even though they've been jumping out of their skins to get on the field.
"The coaching staff is also focusing on their stats, like beep tests and fitness, as well as their hand-eye coordination.
"It's important to teach them the necessary skills and keep them enthusiastic, with a bit of fun thrown in, so they return next year."
GRETA BRANXTON COLTS 18 (Terri Van Wyk 2, Beth Jordan, Jorja Connolly tries; Van Wyk goal) defeated HAMILTON DUCKS 10