A perfect day for rugby unfolded this week and we were hoping to continue our winning form, but it was simply not to be. Vikings were too strong this round and we’ll need to make adjustments in response.
For the first time this season all facets of our set piece were under pressure, which meant we also had to work harder in other aspects of the game to keep touch with our opposition. With a lopsided penalty count tipped their way Vikings had too many chances in our half and having put their nose in front, were able to maintain their lead through to the final whistle and take a five point win 26-31.
But our set piece aside, we again showed our potential with several members of the squad making the most of their opportunities. Pedro Rolando continued his impressive run of form, and directing play in both attack and defence. Josh Myburgh played a significant role, hard on the ball all game long, and Leon Bongare had a massive game, making several line breaks that had Vikings scrambling in response. But Tom Hayes was this week’s standout. His contribution in defence turned the tide on a number of occasions, and he made the absolute utmost of any space the opposition allowed him with ball in hand. He was unlucky to not get a call up to the Australian U20s squad, and we’re sorry that’s the case. But we are not at all sorry to have him in our squad heading towards the finals.
A bye this week will be very welcome and on the other side we’ll face up against Gungahlin in Gungahlin. This really is the business end of the season and the point from which we will build. Hope you can make the trek north and that we see you there. Your support makes a world of difference.
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.
