Canberra Royals 1st Grade 32 def. Queanbeyan Whites 1st Grade 19
BentSpoke John I Dent Cup – Round 7
Campese Oval – Saturday, May 31, 2025

The Canberra Royals 1st Grade side have delivered their most complete performance of the 2025 season, claiming a thrilling 32-19 victory over Queanbeyan Whites at Campese Oval in a match that showcased the attacking prowess of both sides.

After their previous encounter with the Whites resulted in a disappointing loss, the Royals approached this return fixture with renewed determination and clinical execution that overwhelmed their cross-border rivals.

The visitors established early dominance with flanker Liam Clews opening the scoring, demonstrating the sharp passing and support play that has become a hallmark of the Royals’ attack this season.

Hooker Liam Bowron extended the advantage with a well-taken try before Winger Zac Ross powered over to give the Royals a commanding early lead. The powerful forward’s contribution highlighted the pack’s growing confidence in their set-piece execution.

Back rower Tom Iles added the fourth try for the visitors, with goal-kicker Kye Oates converting to maintain the Royals’ momentum. Halfback Daniel Nelson completed the first-half scoring spree with the team’s fifth try, again converted by the reliable Oates.

The Whites responded through fullback Nathan Carroll in the seventh minute, with half Cullin Cooper-Jones adding the conversion to reduce the deficit. Winger Eli Sagala crossed in the 14th minute, though Cooper-Jones was unable to convert as the home side trailed 32-12 at halftime.

The second half saw a more measured approach from both sides, with the Whites adding their third try through winger Koko Salim in the 22nd minute. Cooper-Jones successfully converted to bring the final score to 32-19.

The match was not without its disciplinary issues, with yellow cards issued to both sides. Joe Dillon received a sin-bin for intentional infringement, while Whites winger Waisea Tudulu was shown yellow for foul play.

Head coach Joe Kolokihakaufisi was forced into early changes due to injuries, with Harry Vella departing for Samuel Heffernan. The coaching staff also utilised tactical substitutions effectively, with Joshua Myburgh making way for Brendan Le Galludec and Zac Ross replaced by George Tankard.

Oates’ composure with the boot proved crucial, successfully converting two of the team’s five tries to ensure maximum points from the scoring opportunities. The backline’s combination play, particularly between Clews and Nelson at flyhalf, provided the platform for the team’s attacking success.

The comprehensive victory represents a significant statement of intent from the Royals, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure in hostile territory while maintaining the attacking flair that has defined their 2025 campaign.

MATCH DETAILS

Try Scorers:
Royals: Liam Clews, Liam Bowron, Zac Ross, Tom Iles, Daniel Nelson
Whites: Nathan Carroll, Eli Sagala, Koko Salim

Conversions:
Royals: Kye Oates (2/5)
Whites: Cullin Cooper-Jones (2/3)

Penalty Goals:
Royals: None
Whites: None