3rd XV Round 4 Results
Round 4 was a great round of matches that left us with a single undefeated team – Scots. They continue on their march to the premiership with a big win over Riverview. In the upset of the comp so far, Shore ended Grammar’s undefeated run in a tense encounter at Rushcutters Bay. Grammar are not out of it by any means as they meet Scots in the final round. Kings also sit one loss back and they must be considered a chance to share the premiership and retain the shield with three rounds to go.
Scots 33 d Riverview 10
What a match this was and a comprehensive victory by Scots over Riverview. The Scots forwards dominated this match with an effective pick and drive strategy that resulted in a number of tries including two in the first half. Riverview had no answer for the Scots forward domination and despite their best efforts trailed 12-5 at the break. Scots added another three tries in the second half and while Riverview scored a good try, they were never really in the match. Riverview host Kings next round, while Scots travel to Northbridge to take on the resurgent Shore side in what will definitely be match of the round.
Shore 12 d Grammar 5
In the biggest upset of the competition so far, Shore defeated a previously undefeated Grammar in a tense match at Weigall. It was one try each at the break and Shore led 7-5 with only a conversion the difference. The second half was a tight battle with both teams having opportunities to score. The Shore try that sealed the match was an excellent play to the left winger that made it 12-5 and that was the final score. Grammar continually threatened the Shore line at the northern end, but Shore defence held up extremely well and they were able to withstand the Grammar attack and get away with the points. Shore host Scots next week in what will be another great contest while Grammar travel to Centennial Park for the annual Battle of the Selective GPS Schools against High.
Kings 32 d TAS 12
No match coverage available for this game but it finished as expected with a comfortable win to Kings at home. My TAS contact indicated that TAS had some positive moments in the game, but Kings were ultimately too strong as expected. Kings remain one loss back now, equal with Grammar, and they play Riverview next week. They definitely need to win that match. TAS travel to Hunters Hill which is a big ask having two consecutive rounds away in Sydney, and they look like they have a big task there based on current form.
Joeys 56 d High 7
Joeys had a good win over High at Centennial Park and remain two losses back on the table. It is becoming increasingly unlikely that this will be close enough to share the premiership, as Scots are not looking like they are going to drop two matches in the remaining three rounds, but anything is possible. Joeys are back home next week against a travelling TAS side while High host Grammar at home.
Current 3rd XV ladder points
Scots - 8
Kings & Grammar - 6
Joeys, Riverview & Shore – 4
TAS – 2
High - 0
Regards
INP