Sport
7 August, 2026
Western Plains Rugby Union Report - Round 14
The Western Plains Rugby Union home-and-away season concluded in dramatic fashion on the weekend, with the final final’s positions decided across both the Ahrens Cup and Elders Cup competitions.
Ahrens Cup
Walgett Ewes 24 def Bourke Ewes 14
The Walgett Ewes secured their place in the finals with a hard-fought 24-14 victory over the Bourke Ewes in a fiercely contested clash at Walgett.
With a semi-final berth on the line, both teams threw everything into the contest, but Walgett proved just a little stronger in controlling field position and possession throughout the afternoon. The Ewes crossed for four tries and added two conversions, while Bourke remained in the contest through two tries and two conversions.
The victory ensured Walgett finished third on the ladder and booked their place in the finals, while Bourke’s season came to an end after a spirited campaign.
Nyngan Bullets 20 def Flamin’ Galahs 17
The Nyngan Bullets produced the upset of the round, defeating second-placed Flamin’ Galahs 20-17 in a must-win encounter at Nyngan.
Knowing a victory was essential to secure a finals berth, the Bullets played with outstanding intensity from the opening whistle. While the Flamin’ Galahs created opportunities, several costly errors at crucial moments allowed Nyngan to seize control.
Star performer Jemma Perko was unstoppable, crossing for three tries as Nyngan scored four tries to three. The Galahs added one conversion, but it wasn’t enough to deny the Bullets a memorable victory and fourth place on the ladder.
Final Ahrens Cup Ladder
Coonamble Rams – 35 points (Minor Premiers)
Flamin’ Galahs – 24 points
Walgett Ewes – 17 points
Nyngan Bullets – 15 points
Bourke Ewes – 9 points
Elders Cup
Walgett Rams 64 def Bourke Brewarrina Barbarians 20
The Walgett Rams wrapped up the minor premiership in emphatic fashion, overpowering the Bourke Brewarrina Barbarians 64-20.
Walgett ran in 10 tries and seven conversions in a dominant attacking display, while the Barbarians fought hard to score three tries and a conversion.
The bonus-point victory secured top spot on the ladder for the Rams heading into the finals. Although the Barbarians’ season came to an end, they can reflect proudly on a competitive campaign and the continued growth of their side throughout the year.
Nyngan Bogan Bulls 40 def Gulargambone 10
The Nyngan Bogan Bulls confirmed second place on the ladder with a convincing 40-10 victory over the Gulargambone Gulars.
The Bulls crossed for six tries, with prolific try-scorer Derek Voku adding another three-try haul to continue his outstanding season. Nicholas Simms was reliable with the boot, kicking five conversions.
For the Gulars, Darcy Neeves scored their lone try while Ryan Ferguson added a penalty goal.
The victory saw Nyngan finish level on competition points with Walgett, only missing the minor premiership on points differential. For Gulargambone, the season was one of missed opportunities, with a mounting injury toll in the closing rounds proving costly in their push for finals football.
Coonamble Rams 47 def Warren Pumas 14
With third place and a home final at stake, the Coonamble Rams produced one of their most complete performances of the season, defeating the Warren Pumas 47-14.
The Rams dominated possession, territory and the forward battle from the outset, never allowing Warren to build any momentum. Coonamble crossed for seven tries and six conversions, while the Pumas managed two converted tries.
The comprehensive victory secured third place on the ladder and the right to host the opening week of the finals, with Warren slipping to fourth.
Final Elders Cup Ladder
Walgett Rams – 51 points (+292)
Nyngan Bogan Bulls – 51 points (+237)
Coonamble Rams – 38 points (+110)
Warren Pumas – 32 points (+32)
Gulargambone Gulars – 27 points (+24)
Bourke Brewarrina Barbarians – 16 points (-169)
Cobar Camels – 0 points (-526)
Finals Series
The race for Western Plains Rugby Union premiership glory begins this weekend with the Minor Semi-Finals at Coonamble Sports Ground on Saturday, 8 August.
1.30pm - Ahrens Cup Minor Semi-Final
Walgett Ewes vs Nyngan Bullets
3.00pm – Elders Cup Minor Semi-Final
Coonamble Rams vs Warren Pumas
The following weekend, the Major Semi-Finals will be played at Walgett Rugby Park on Saturday, August 15.
Ahrens Cup Major Semi-Final
Coonamble Rams vs Flamin’ Galahs
Elders Cup Major Semi-Final
Walgett Rams vs Nyngan Bogan Bulls
With the finals now set, the race for the 2026 Western Plains Rugby Union premierships promises to deliver another exciting chapter in what has been a highly competitive season.
