The local derby for the Wal Scollen cup is considered a key fixture in the Royals calendar. Wal holds a special place in the Royals culture and there’s always a bit more that goes into this clash.
Supporters could have been forgiven for thinking this year was going to be a white wash with the Vikings dominating possession and putting 24 unanswered points on Royals. But to their credit the cheers and support from the stands continued and had an effect on the players who never dropped their heads and fought hard to put 7 points on the board (thanks to James Bundy) heading into the half time break.
Half time saw the coaches encouraging the players to hold to the plan and improve their discipline sensing that the game’s momentum was shifting. Royals put on the performance of the season so far scoring three tries in the second half thanks to Tom Iles, Liae Tuilagi and Angus Staniforth- and with only 5 minutes remaining in the match and a one point lead, Royals needed to control the ball from the kickoff and play at the other end of the park. Unfortunately we failed to execute the plan and conceded a penalty with less than 2 mins remaining allowing Vikings to knock over the penalty and prepare to receive the kickoff with a two point lead.
With only a minute and change on the clock, Royals set about the challenge of winning the ball back and breaking through the Vikings line to score. And with only moments remaining we managed to gain possession and press the Vikings hard. We were making meters and had the opposition on their own try line when they managed to get their hands on the pill and earn a penalty that effectively won the match.
Except that wasn’t all.
In the aftermath of the penalty, with the Royals players dropping their heads and walking back into position thinking the game was lost, a Vikings player made contact with one of the Royals players, resulting in pushes and punches being thrown that in the wrap up saw the Vikings penalty reversed and Pedro Rolando allowed the opportunity to convert a penalty, secure the win 29-27, and bring the Wal Scollen cup back to Royals in 2023.
Next week we play the Owls at ANU, our support is a big factor in our performances so it would be great to have you with us as we make our way towards the finals.
