3rd XV Round 1 Report
It was one of the wettest days ever for Round 1 of the 3rd XV competition but four teams made the most of it to post good wins.
Scots 3rd XV 17 d Joeys 3rd XV 12
Match of the round was a very close affair at Bellevue Hill and congratulations to Scots on a good first up win. OK, I did not pick this result, but the match really could have gone either way. Joeys just made too many mistakes with handling and lineouts in the wet. This win by Scots sets them up well as they embark on their title defense in 2024. They host Sydney Boys High the week after the long weekend in Round 2, while Joeys travel to Northbridge for another tough match against Shore.
Riverview 3rd XV 68 d High 1st XV 0
It's no surprise that Riverview put almost 70 points on High despite the conditions. It probably could have been more in the dry. I didn't see this game but I suspect it was very similar to the trial at Hunters Hill last week where High were comprehensively beaten despite their best efforts. It doesn't get any easier for High next round as they tackle Scots away, while Riverview travel to Grammer for what will be a really close match.
Grammar 1st XV 21 d Kings 3rd XV 10
I predicted this result as I think Grammar have had some very tough trials leading up to the competition. J. S White oval held up well (except for the cricket pitch) and Grammar would be very happy to take a win at Gowan Brae to open their campaign. They host Riverview next round and that will test them, while Kings travel to Armidale and that should be another great match.
Shore 3rd XV 17 d TAS 1st XV 0
I am pleased to report that this was a relatively close match at Northbridge. While TAS didn't open their scoring for the season, they have demonstrated that they will be competitive, especially at home in Armidale. Shore will be looking forward to hosting Joeys on 15 June and TAS will have their first home match against Kings and they are a good chance to win that one.
INP