Looking back at how this match played out it would be very easy to only focus on the final moments where Wests had the opportunity to steal the win with a late penalty goal. But the reality is Royals seemed the stronger of the two sides, and aside from a couple of lapses in discipline, seemed completely comfortable dealing with the down and dirty physical style of rugby Wests play.
Pedro Rolando was masterful for Royals leading the pack around the park and taking full advantage of opportunities to slot points from the tee whenever they were on offer. James Bundy had a strong game at scrum time, through his carries and by way of some absolutely bone rattling tackles. And Tom Hayes made a welcome return to the centres linking well with Joe Winfield and Lincoln Smith in attack and making his presence well and truly felt in defence.
A two point win could very well have become a one point loss due to a late penalty. But this week the rugby gods smiled on us and we come away from Jamison in second place on the ladder. Next weekend we’ll face up against Vikings at home in Phillip and expect a tough encounter after Vikings got a good win over the Eagles last week. It’d be great to have a strong crowd behind us for this one. We hope to see you there.
