Harden started strongly scoring the first try down the right wing, followed by a second within the next 10 minutes as Hardens quick back line picked holes in Wagga’s defence.

Both sides contested the ball at the breakdown aggressively, however Wagga started to dominate, providing them with vital possession and ultimately three tries and conversions in the first half. However Harden held on and went into the break leading 22-21.

Harden’s forward pack were too strong for Wagga and won the majority of the scrums and lineouts, providing Harden with plenty of opportunity to get extra points on the board.

However, Wagga’s defence lifted significantly in the second half and they worked tirelessly to shut down Harden’s back line attack.

The second half was as physical as the first with Wagga scoring two additional tries to Harden’s single as both teams battled it out in an entertaining game of rugby. Unfortunately Harden were unable to capitalize on several opportunities in the last five minutes and went down 38-29 at the final whistle.

Harden’s tries were scored by Jarrod Prosser and Justin Stewart, with Royce Tout converting two and Jarrod Prosser one. Harden play Young in the final round of the 2010 competition and will progress into the first round of finals on August 22.