Royals’ Promising Season Ends in Disappointment Against Vikings
Royals’ Promising Season Ends in Disappointment Against Vikings
The Canberra Royals’ 2025 season came to a heartbreaking end on Saturday, as they fell 39-29 to the Tuggeranong Vikings in the Preliminary Final of the BentSpoke John I Dent Cup. The defeat denied the Royals a chance to defend their 2024 premiership in the Grand Final, leaving the team and their loyal supporters feeling both disappointed and proud after a strong regular season campaign.
The Royals, who finished the regular season in top spot with a 10-3 record, had been considered the favorites heading into the clash with their cross-town rivals. However, the Vikings proved too strong on the day, clinching a well-deserved victory to secure their place in the season decider.
As highlighted in our previous coverage, the Royals were left reeling from a heavy defeat to the Uni-Norths Owls in the Semi-Finals. While the team had been hoping to bounce back and make amends, they were unable to replicate the form that saw them dominate much of the regular season.
Vikings Overpower Royals in Decisive Victory
The Vikings, who finished the regular season in second place, put in a commanding performance to overcome the Royals. Led by a standout display from flyhalf Jones, the home side scored five tries to the Royals’ four, with the opposition slotting four conversions and two penalties to guide his team to victory.
For the Royals, Liam Clews, Viliami Sipa, and Jarrah Mcleod all crossed the line, with Chace Oates Kicking 3 conversions and 2 penalties.
Disappointing End to a Promising Campaign
The defeat is a tough pill to swallow for the Royals, who had enjoyed a superb regular season that saw them top the ladder with a 10-3 record and a points difference of +80. The team had been hoping to reach a second consecutive Grand Final and defend their 2024 title, but ultimately fell short against a determined Vikings outfit.
Despite the disappointing end to their campaign, the Royals can take plenty of positives from their 2025 season. The team’s regular season performances, which saw them claim the minor premiership, demonstrate the progress they have made and the potential they possess for the future.
With a talented squad and a dedicated coaching staff, the Royals will no doubt be determined to come back stronger in 2026 and mount another challenge for the BentSpoke John I Dent Cup title. For now, the focus will be on reflecting on the lessons learned from this season and building towards an even more successful campaign next year.
