Boorowa Rugby Club are the 2025 South West Fuel Cup champions, producing a clinical Grand Final performance on Saturday afternoon to defeat a determined Harden Red Devils outfit 19–5.

After falling short in last year’s decider, there was no shortage of motivation for the Goldies, who ensured this time the result went their way.

Boorowa dominated in the first half, coming in hot and seeking the win, while Harden were held scoreless.

“A monstrous crowd was on hand and conditions were fine, but with a strong wind coming from the south,” a representative of Boorowa Rugby Club said.

“The Goldies capitalised on the wind in the first half with some excellent kicking by Dick and Carmo, including a game-changing 50-22 to Patty J. The Goldies heaped pressure on the Harden line for the first 20 minutes and were rewarded through tries to Mark Poplin and Josh Sloane.

"Harden kept coming back though and ensured the score was only 14-0 at the half.”

After a motivating team talk at halftime, Harden’s attitude shifted and they came out firing.

The Red Devils quickly scored their first try of the afternoon, narrowing the margin to 14–5 and putting real pressure on the hosts.

“The Red Devils made the most of the breeze to start the second half and crossed the line early,” the club said.

“The Goldies defence was immense, and combined with the strength of the scrum, they wore down the Harden defence for Rob Stirzaker to score in the 70th minute after some huge set-piece work.

"The score remained 19-5 and Harden was throwing everything at the Goldies.

"The seconds seemed to take minutes, but the boys stood strong.”

Backed by a vocal home crowd, Boorowa had settled into their rhythm early and capitalised on opportunities, with tries to Stirzaker, Sloane and Poplin proving decisive. Conversions were added by Carmody and Johnson.

Their defensive discipline was equally impressive, holding Harden to a single try despite the visitors’ spirited second-half surge.

Large numbers of Red Devils supporters also made the trip to Boorowa, ensuring the atmosphere matched the occasion and underlining the rivalry and respect between the two clubs.

“The Goldies defence was immense,” the club added.

“It was a great game of footy and a deserving Grand Final for the season that was.

"Thanks to the Harden Red Devils for a fantastic game and atmosphere - all the best for a great 2026 season.”

The victory capped off an outstanding year for Boorowa, securing both the Minor and Major Premierships.

Their only blemish came in a narrow loss to Temora during the regular season, but the setback proved valuable in sharpening their resolve heading into finals.

Best on ground honours went to Chudleigh, Sloane and “all 25 others.”

Keagan Size was named Player of the Competition for the second straight year, with Chudleigh finishing runner-up and Carmody claiming the second-highest point scorer tally.

“What a week of support,” the club said.

“Thank you to all supporters, sponsors, volunteers, committee and everyone in the Gold Army.”

For Harden, it was another strong campaign, reaching the final on the back of consistency and grit.

While the result was not in their favour, their effort and the support from their travelling fans underlined the club’s enduring strength.

As celebrations begin, there is little doubt Boorowa will be painted gold this weekend, with the Goldies’ triumph marking a proud moment for the club and its community.