University too good for Vikings

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Four games of rugby were played under perfect conditions, in front of an appreciative crowd at Vikings Rugby Field on Saturday. The pig on the spit being prepared for the evening’s entertainment added a festive air. I could have done without the music but that’s just me. Sorry Marcus.

Three of the four games were won by Vikings. The one they missed out on was the most important one however, First grade, which was won by University 29-23.

The Colts match was between Vikings and Bowral. It started very early and I must confess that when I arrived the second half was underway. I hadn’t realised that it was on. It is in the light of this limited appraisal that I am reporting an easy win to Vikings. Lots of running, a bit of tackling and quite a few tries. The full time score was 47-10 with Vikings apparently scoring six converted tries as well as one unconverted. That would work out to 47. Bowral scored two unconverted tries for their ten points. Vikings might have scored more if it hadn’t been for the Bowral number eight. He can tackle. I have it on good authority that Viking try scorers were Daniel Bunton (3), Sam Wheatley (2), Rhys Bridges (1) and Darcy Crane (1). Sam also took the conversions. If I’m wrong I’m sure someone will let me know.

Third Grade was another high scoring match which phone number list Vikings won 65-nil. There was great interest in this game from the Viking supporters because four Vikings from earlier years had decided to have a game of rugby with their sons. The father and son combinations were Michael Crane with Jack and Darcy, Spiro Lozenkovski with Mitchell, Justin Giles with his stepson Ryan Anderson and Marcus Claridge with Tom. Long serving five eighth Todd Goodwin who has played over 400 games with Vikings also made a guest appearance for his one and only game of the season. It was all good fun. Rugby’s like that. Very enjoyable. I am assured they were all registered. Vikings 65 points came from eleven tries, five of which were converted. Try scorers, according to me, were Chris Nanassi (3), Mark Foster (2) and one each to Nick McCauley, Shannon Fraser, Andrew Stanton, Josh Devitt, Sam Wheatley and Rhys Thomson.

First Grade was won by University and deservedly so. Vikings began strongly and finished well, but the period in between left much to be desired. I have previously suggested in my Match Reports on Vikings games that some tackling practice at training would be worthwhile. I am still of that view. Vikings’ attacking ability can be on a par with University’s and both teams can run in spectacular tries. Vikings first try was a good example. A break by five eighth Nick Matts, a pass to centre Beau Midgley, promoted full back Tom Mackey chiming in and a final pass to winger Ryan Anderson to score. All done at pace. No drama. University ran in some excellent tries as well. When it comes to defence however Vikings are too often found wanting. Not so University. Therein lies the difference.

It must also be said that Vikings’ cause was not helped by the large number of penalties they conceded. They must address this problem next week if they are to progress past the elimination semi-final.

Vikings’ tries were scored by Ryan Anderson and David Capp. Steve Sunderland converted both tries and kicked three penalties. University scored four tries, converting three and also kicking a penalty.

Best forwards for Vikings were Nick McCauley and Simon Watts, with Nick Matts and Beau Midgley going well in the back line.