Macleay Valley Mustangs captain Richie Roberts admitted the Group Three Rugby League grand final victory with his hometown club yesterday had a different feeling.
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Roberts had won a premiership with the Mustangs back in 2014 before signing with the Port City Breakers and claiming two more titles in 2016 and 2017.
However, when considering the Mustangs were close to folding at the end of 2018 and the sacrifices made to keep the club afloat, it made the victory taste all the more sweeter.
"This one was special," Roberts told the Argus minutes after the 34-24 victory over Wauchope.
"It's going to take a while to sink in I think but I am just going to soak this feeling up and celebrate with my teammates."
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Roberts embraced the captaincy this season and led by example each week.
The hard working forward carried the ball forward with intent each run, tackled with all his strength and demanded excellence from his teammates.
Roberts' determination saw him cross for four tries in the Mustangs' three finals games, including a pivotal try which gave Macleay Valley a 22-18 lead with 15-minutes remaining.
The former Group Three Player of the Year returned to the Mustangs at the beginning of the season to ensure its survival, but to also spend more time with his newborn.
On Sunday, the father celebrated grand final success with little Zhade.
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