Illawarra Cutters halfback Drew Hutchison has revealed the team’s close bond played a key role in the 54-12 victory over the Burleigh Bears in the NRL State Championship at ANZ Stadium, Olympic Park on Sunday.
The Cutters notched nine tries in the comprehensive win which saw them lift their second piece of silverware in as many weeks following the previous 21-20 win over the Mt Pritchard Mounties to win the NSW Cup Grand Final.
Hutchison has credited the cohesion of the entire squad in forging their path to victory and has also singled out fellow halves partner Shaun Nona as a driving factor behind this development.
“We played extremely well and it was reflected on the score line,” said Hutchison.
“We were lucky that everything happened to go right for us on the day and it’s what you want in those big games.
“Shaun Nona was outstanding and he can pull a try from anywhere on the field and blokes really enjoy playing with him.
“He is a great player and a pleasure to play alongside him.
“All the boys really put in for one another knowing they didn’t want to let anyone down and it showed in our performance.
“We have been pretty tight as a unit and that is one of the keys to us winning both Grand Finals.”
