sidelinesid
Jimmy Flynn (14)
Ingate showed serious speed when he tried to run down Batcher.
Boidon was exceptional and arguably best on ground.
Boidon was exceptional and arguably best on ground.
Sydney University Football Club
- Thread starter boyo
- Start date
- Status
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
ROUND 9- RESULTS AROUND THE GROUND
West Harbour 25 - Norths 24
Gordon 21 - Warringah 31
Penrith 32 - Manly 59
Randwick 26 - Easts 20
Souths 29 - Parramatta 30
Gordon 21 - Warringah 31
Penrith 32 - Manly 59
Randwick 26 - Easts 20
Souths 29 - Parramatta 30
Round 9 Review - Grand Final replay sees Students go down to WoodiesBy Bruce 'China' Lin
In Newtonian mechanics, momentum has a direction as well as magnitude. Last Saturday, Eastwood applied this principle in shutting out University 36-15 at the T.G Millner field.
The first half proved significant as University were playing catch up to the ever increasing Eastwood score. Eastwood five eighth Ayoub constructed two simple tries through chip kicks behind the defensive line. Eastwood did their homework on the Students and it was paying dividends.
Prior to the break, University were working good phases inside the Eastwood 22 metre area. A ruck was formed near the touchline however the narrow blindside corridor was unmarked. Winger Nick Batger scooped up the ball and raced away downfield. The University cavalry could not arrive on time to cut off the try. For University supporters, Batger’s try felt like one of those moments depicted in Allianz insurance commercials. Halftime score was 26-3 and University had the job ahead of them
There was some redemption for University in the first five minutes of the second half. The ball was spread quickly to the club house side. Some drawing and passing allowed winger Dargaville to once again receive the ball. Dargaville applied his speed to score an excellent try which was converted.
The remainder of the half was an arm wrestle where University did not receive any luck. Penalties were given, play was pulled back – it just wasn’t a day for the Students.
Big Eastwood winger Grant scored another try to extend their lead . University scored again in the latter stages of the game through phases inside the Eastwood five metre area. The ball was recycled to the left allowing winger Dave Dillon to score in the clubhouse corner. The try was unconverted and the game finished off with the final scoreline of 36-15.
No game versus Eastwood is easy. The wounded Students will assign this game to the archives and regroup.
This Friday night the club’s annual Friday Night Football game will see University do battle with a re-energised Randwick at University Oval. A night full of atmosphere, surprises and some great rugby.
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 10: SUFC vs Randwick
FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL (proudly sponsored by Urbanest Student Accommodation)
This Friday night, our 1st Colts and 1st Grade teams will be playing under the lights at Uni No.1 Oval against Randwick in our annual Friday Night Footy game. It is always an excellent night, filled with great crowds and great entertainment, including two superb games of rugby, exciting half time entertainment, fireworks and more!
The night also plays host to our Urbanest Student Party which provides students with free entry to the game, music by the Red Bull DJ, cheap drinks and a sausage sizzle by the sideline!
Despite all this excitement however off the field, the focus will still be on the Round 10 games, with wins needed against Randwick to keep SUFC in a good position for the Club Championship.
Our First Grade side is looking to bounce back after the tough loss they endured against Eastwood last weekend, and Head Coach Chris Malone knows that it will take an all round team effort to get on top of Randwick.
"Randwick are a good side, they have conceded the least amount of points of any team in the competition at this point in time and will be a tough challenge." said Malone.
"We will have to be at our best with our attack and need to work hard to continue evolving our defence. Randwick like to play the ball wide and it will require very good defensive organisation and intent to stop them from running us around."
For our Colts, it seems there will be some similarly tough battles ahead.
"Randwick made no secret they have recruited the hardest of all of the colts clubs this year and laid claim to pre-season favouritism in the colts competition." said David Haigh, SUFC Director of Colts. "This means they will come to Uni this Friday and Saturday intent on knocking us off and we must be up for this challenge".
GAME TIMES
FRIDAY 30th May
Uni No. 1 Oval
1st Grade - 7.30pm
1st Colts - 5.50pm
SATURDAY 31st May
Uni No. 1 Oval
2nd Grade - 1.25pm
3rd Grade - 12.00pm
4th Grade - 10.45am
St John's Oval
2nd Colts - 1.35pm
3rd Colts - 12.20pm
FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL (proudly sponsored by Urbanest Student Accommodation)
This Friday night, our 1st Colts and 1st Grade teams will be playing under the lights at Uni No.1 Oval against Randwick in our annual Friday Night Footy game. It is always an excellent night, filled with great crowds and great entertainment, including two superb games of rugby, exciting half time entertainment, fireworks and more!
The night also plays host to our Urbanest Student Party which provides students with free entry to the game, music by the Red Bull DJ, cheap drinks and a sausage sizzle by the sideline!
Despite all this excitement however off the field, the focus will still be on the Round 10 games, with wins needed against Randwick to keep SUFC in a good position for the Club Championship.
Our First Grade side is looking to bounce back after the tough loss they endured against Eastwood last weekend, and Head Coach Chris Malone knows that it will take an all round team effort to get on top of Randwick.
"Randwick are a good side, they have conceded the least amount of points of any team in the competition at this point in time and will be a tough challenge." said Malone.
"We will have to be at our best with our attack and need to work hard to continue evolving our defence. Randwick like to play the ball wide and it will require very good defensive organisation and intent to stop them from running us around."
For our Colts, it seems there will be some similarly tough battles ahead.
"Randwick made no secret they have recruited the hardest of all of the colts clubs this year and laid claim to pre-season favouritism in the colts competition." said David Haigh, SUFC Director of Colts. "This means they will come to Uni this Friday and Saturday intent on knocking us off and we must be up for this challenge".
Fun and fireworks at our 2013 Friday Night Footy.
For full team lists, please click here. GAME TIMES
FRIDAY 30th May
Uni No. 1 Oval
1st Grade - 7.30pm
1st Colts - 5.50pm
SATURDAY 31st May
Uni No. 1 Oval
2nd Grade - 1.25pm
3rd Grade - 12.00pm
4th Grade - 10.45am
St John's Oval
2nd Colts - 1.35pm
3rd Colts - 12.20pm
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
ROUND 10 - RESULTS AROUND THE GROUND
Parramatta 37 - Wests 29
Easts 12 - Souths 34
Manly 42 - Eastwood 22
Warringah 34 - Penrith 18
Norths 44 - Gordon 15
Easts 12 - Souths 34
Manly 42 - Eastwood 22
Warringah 34 - Penrith 18
Norths 44 - Gordon 15
Round 10 Review - A draw against Randwick under the lights of Uni No.1By Bruce 'China' Lin
It was a match filled with tension in the final stages last Friday night at University Oval after Randwick fought back in salvaging a 23-23 draw with University.
The evening was full of atmosphere with fireworks, college students patronising beer tents and an exhibition race to entertain the large crowd.
Both sides threw the ball about early on. University’s defence was solid and the Students were ahead at one stage 16-3 courtesy of a James Nonu-Carling try and some handy penalty kicks by second rower Byron Hodge. But any detour to get a Magners cider would risk missing the mini comebacks by Randwick.
Randwick eventually constructed some continuity and a deft try with an Ella like wrap around move was constructed by the halves.
As mentioned there was great atmosphere at University Oval. During halftime the annual University Gift 400 metre dash was won by prop big Fava Sailosi with a little handicap advantage. This annual event is gathering a worldwide A list following. On that note, seeing Kim & Kanye and baby North in the terraces on their world honeymoon was a surprise. Who would have thought the West’s and North would be down south!
University were the first to score for the second half. Attacking towards the grandstand the Students were building good pressure. A flurry of rucks and mauls inside the Randwick 22 metre area saw winger James Dargaville come out with the ball. Dargaville transformed himself as a Las Vegas illusionist by somehow bouncing off and through a pack of Randwick players to have a clean run to the tryline for a converted try.
With their backs to the wall Randwick dug deep and commenced to construct some phases of play. In a passage of loose play, the ball was flung wide towards the hill and appeared to be knocked on. However, the referee failed to apply the whistle and Randwick tighhead prop Goodbody scored a lucky try.
The remainder of the game was tight as Randwick were hitting University with maximum force. When the trifecta hit University- sin binning, turnover and overlap coming in succession, the game was literally going down to the wire!
As the fulltime hooter rang, the Randwick backs secured the ball inside the University 22 metre area. With an overlap bigger than The Honourable Clive Palmer, the ball was diagonally kicked and regathered by Randwick for a dramatic five points. With fullback Windon to win the game with a wide conversion, all eyes were focused on the Randwick fullback. The ball sailed towards the post and a chorus of sighs was heard across the ground as it just missed.
A frustrating end for University but motivation to refocus for the
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 11: Southern Districts v SUFC
This weekend our Grade sides are down at Forshaw Rugby Park to take on Southern Districts, while Colts play them at home at St Paul's Oval.
It's a big weekend for all at SUFC, with wins necessary to keep the Club Championship within good reach, but the boys are well aware of the challenges ahead and the hard work needed to achieve this.
In particular, after a draw against Randwick last Friday, our 1st Grade boys know they need to step it up on Saturday against Souths. Souths have had some strong wins in the last few rounds and have some key players who have the potential to cause a few headaches.
"A very big pack of forwards led by Jed Holloway and with the returning Steve Fualau, we will have to be a lot better than we were on Friday to get the result we are after." said Head Coach Chris Malone.
"Concentrating on our game and our execution is crucial to our game, and taking care of each role in the team on an individual basis will help our chances."
Our Colts have a different challenge ahead of them, needing to build upon their strong form after winning all 3 games last weekend. Resting on their laurels is not an option this week as Souths are sure to be one of the most difficult oppositions thus far.
"Whilst it is easy to get up for a big round against our traditional rivals Randwick, the challenge now is to repeat the performance, or better yet improve, against a strong Southern Districts outfit." said Directors of Colts, Daivd Haigh.
"The Rebels have developed their team around a core group of young, stand-out players from last year and have earnt their spot near the top of the respective competition tables. This will surely be our toughest round to-date this season."
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 7th JUNE
Forshaw Rugby Park
1st Grade - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 1.25pm
3rd Grade - 12.00pm
4th Grade - 10.45am
This weekend our Grade sides are down at Forshaw Rugby Park to take on Southern Districts, while Colts play them at home at St Paul's Oval.
It's a big weekend for all at SUFC, with wins necessary to keep the Club Championship within good reach, but the boys are well aware of the challenges ahead and the hard work needed to achieve this.
In particular, after a draw against Randwick last Friday, our 1st Grade boys know they need to step it up on Saturday against Souths. Souths have had some strong wins in the last few rounds and have some key players who have the potential to cause a few headaches.
"A very big pack of forwards led by Jed Holloway and with the returning Steve Fualau, we will have to be a lot better than we were on Friday to get the result we are after." said Head Coach Chris Malone.
"Concentrating on our game and our execution is crucial to our game, and taking care of each role in the team on an individual basis will help our chances."
Our Colts have a different challenge ahead of them, needing to build upon their strong form after winning all 3 games last weekend. Resting on their laurels is not an option this week as Souths are sure to be one of the most difficult oppositions thus far.
"Whilst it is easy to get up for a big round against our traditional rivals Randwick, the challenge now is to repeat the performance, or better yet improve, against a strong Southern Districts outfit." said Directors of Colts, Daivd Haigh.
"The Rebels have developed their team around a core group of young, stand-out players from last year and have earnt their spot near the top of the respective competition tables. This will surely be our toughest round to-date this season."
Jack Macklin and James Dargaville took on Southern Districts away in Round 7 last year in 2nd Grade, and will now both play a pivotal role this weekend, now in 1st Grade
For full team lists, please click here. GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 7th JUNE
Forshaw Rugby Park
1st Grade - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 1.25pm
3rd Grade - 12.00pm
4th Grade - 10.45am
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
ROUND 11- RESULTS AROUND THE GROUND
West Harbour 29 - Gordon 0
Penrith 35 - Norths 26
Eastwood 41 - Warringah 24
Randwick 12 - Manly 60
Parramatta 52 - Easts 20
Penrith 35 - Norths 26
Eastwood 41 - Warringah 24
Randwick 12 - Manly 60
Parramatta 52 - Easts 20
Round 11 Review - Students back in the winning circle with a strong victory over Souths
By Bruce 'China' Lin
There are geographical areas synonymous for particular genres. Hollywood for motion pictures, Seattle for grunge music and a southern Sydney hamlet for Australian reality television. For Sydney University there is no easy game as you enter - The Shire Zone.
But in a defining moment last Saturday, University produced a well played 30-18 victory on the back of some outstanding performances from some colts aged players who stepped up to another level.
The first half was a tight 40 minutes with Souths leading for the majority with a 3-0 lead courtesy of five eighth Saifoloi ‘s penalty. University’s defence and scrum were solid providing the ideal foundations for the Students to back peddle Souths.
University’s only try of the first half came after a lineout on the Souths 22 metre area. James Nonu-Carlings lineout catch was channelled out wide. Some quick hands allowed fullback Jack Macklin to make the extra man in the backline and slice through the Souths defence to score a converted try.
University were stringing good phases of play during the latter period of the first half. At halftime University were pressuring Souths on their tryline. An opportunity beckoned to put Souths into a state of melancholy as University number eight Hugo Dessens just knocked on over the try line delaying the onset of a duodenal ulcer for their coach.
There is no better way to ignore the chilly winds during the halftime break by just taking in those forgettable tunes coming from the eastern hill. Seeing University stalwart Andrew Coorey performing a jig to the techno sounds just shows there’s a bit of funk in everybody!
University came out for the second half strongly and were able to secure a quick penalty kick. Souths edged back with a try from a crash ball over the line. But the best try of the day came soon after scored by the young flying winger Henry Clunies-Ross.
University attacked towards the club house. Dan Kelly ran a diagonal line drawing defenders and timed an inside ball for Clunies-Ross to receive at full pace. Before you could say Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, the University winger blessed with blinding speed ripped through the defenders to score an outstanding try.
This was the try that hurt Souths and University continued to attack with venom. The Students were gaining ascendancy in the forwards with the pack rucking and shunting Souths in the scrum. A forward rush saw young prop former Australian schoolboy representative Matt Sandell shred Souths in a bumping run for his run on first grade debut. The lad from Mudgee who looks like he could chew a few of his mother Louise’s lamb roasts, set up the ruck ball which was scooped up by half back Jake Gordon who scampered over for another try.
Not content with one try, the man with the hyphen Clunies-Ross decided to add the final bonus point try. Again his pace was bewildering as he literally turned the Souths defenders inside out with a stepping, weaving and speed alternating run to score.
Souths to their credit still tried to peg back the 27-11 scoreline and ended with another crash ball over the line to change the score to 27-18.
Near the end of the game a welcomed penalty to University was kicked by Kelly for a final score of 30-18. Coach Nobby Malone not getting carried away echoed the words, “you believed in yourselves” to his band of happy but weary players after the game.
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 12: SUFC v Parramatta
Another Super Saturday round brings all Grade and Colts teams home to Sydney Uni this weekend to face Parramatta, and after a clean sweep of wins last weekend, the Students are hoping this success will continue.
In 1st Grade, Parramatta sit in 5th on the ladder, just behind us in 4th, and have come off some very strong wins with high scores in recent rounds. Chris Malone, SUFC Head Coach, knows that this means his side will have a big task ahead of them to secure a win and will require consistently solid defence throughout the game.
"Parramatta have won their last 3 games in a row and scored 120 points in those 3 games, so it is safe to say they are very dangerous across the whole field." said Malone. "Whilst it is widely recognised that they have acquired a wrecking machine in Taqele Naiyaravoro at outside centre, I am also impressed by how many other attacking threats they have."
It's a similar story for our Colts who come up against the Parramatta Colts teams who have also been on a good streak of wins.
"Parramatta’s Colts teams are coming off a strong round last week when they clean swept Eastern Suburbs. This is the first time we have played the Two Blues this year and are expecting them to arrive at St Paul’s College Oval hungry for more wins. Uni’s 2nd and 3rd Colts can consolidate their positions on the ladder with wins this week while 1st Colts must arrive at the ground mentally better prepared than last week. The colts games will be played early in the day to allow all players to watch the 1st Grade game on No. 1 Oval.
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 14th JUNE
Uni No.1 Oval
1st Grade - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 1.25pm
3rd Grade - 12.00pm
4th Grade - 10.45am
St Paul's Oval
1st Colts - 1.25pm
2nd Colts - 12.00pm
3rd Colts - 10.45am
Another Super Saturday round brings all Grade and Colts teams home to Sydney Uni this weekend to face Parramatta, and after a clean sweep of wins last weekend, the Students are hoping this success will continue.
In 1st Grade, Parramatta sit in 5th on the ladder, just behind us in 4th, and have come off some very strong wins with high scores in recent rounds. Chris Malone, SUFC Head Coach, knows that this means his side will have a big task ahead of them to secure a win and will require consistently solid defence throughout the game.
"Parramatta have won their last 3 games in a row and scored 120 points in those 3 games, so it is safe to say they are very dangerous across the whole field." said Malone. "Whilst it is widely recognised that they have acquired a wrecking machine in Taqele Naiyaravoro at outside centre, I am also impressed by how many other attacking threats they have."
It's a similar story for our Colts who come up against the Parramatta Colts teams who have also been on a good streak of wins.
"Parramatta’s Colts teams are coming off a strong round last week when they clean swept Eastern Suburbs. This is the first time we have played the Two Blues this year and are expecting them to arrive at St Paul’s College Oval hungry for more wins. Uni’s 2nd and 3rd Colts can consolidate their positions on the ladder with wins this week while 1st Colts must arrive at the ground mentally better prepared than last week. The colts games will be played early in the day to allow all players to watch the 1st Grade game on No. 1 Oval.
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 14th JUNE
Uni No.1 Oval
1st Grade - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 1.25pm
3rd Grade - 12.00pm
4th Grade - 10.45am
St Paul's Oval
1st Colts - 1.25pm
2nd Colts - 12.00pm
3rd Colts - 10.45am
Spieber
Bob Loudon (25)
Julian Huxley running around in the 2's!?!
http://www.sydneyunirugby.com.au/season/team-lists.html
http://www.sydneyunirugby.com.au/season/team-lists.html
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 12 Review - Clean sweep for Students against Two Blues
By Bruce 'China' Lin
University defeated Parramatta 52-17 last Saturday at University Oval. However Parramatta showed that the hard times over the years are a mere afterthought as they showed real enterprise in their play on the day.
It was the discipline of University which caused Parramatta the headaches, through a dynamic pack and real speed amongst the backs. It was behind one of the driving University scrums that half back Jake Gordon scored the Students’ first try as he took advantage of an unmarked side of the scrum. Gordon’s try was the catalyst igniting the University backline and the next try has continued a recent trend.
Receiving the ball from the kickoff, outside centre Chris Ingate straightened the attack and drew the defenders for the reintroduction of one Henry Clunies-Ross.
Last week Clunies-Ross was quicker than an overseas leader’s name. His try on Saturday was tantamount to a vapour trail down the western touchline after receiving the ball from Ingate.
Parramatta was able to hit back when a loosely marked Students blindside saw their fullback Woods glide through and score.
However, the set piece discipline of University was beginning to tell on Parramatta and two consecutive tries were attributed to University’s scrum dominance leading up to half time. At the break the score was 28-5 and a further spectacular forty minutes of rugby was in store.
Parramatta was actually the first to score after the break but this early hiatus was short lived. Once again Clunies-Ross crossed over the line after Parramatta left their blindside short.
There was a swag of more tries scored to University, but breakaway James Nonu-Carling’s effort was noteworthy as it involved a seasoned campaigner and the determination one of University’s young guns.
Receiving the ball well inside his half, centre Tom Carter busted through the Parramatta defensive line and was headed towards the grandstand corner. The defence was closing in and Carter, realising the red boots would not get him to the line, timed a pass to a supporting Nonu-Carling. The young breakaway put his head back said a quick hello to SUFC Committee Member Conn Droulias on the sideline, and ran for his life along the eastern touchline towards the grandstand corner. You could practically hear Vangelis’s 1981 theme for Chariots of Fire trailing in the background as the doggedness was etched on Nonu-Carlings face as he scored this try.
Parramatta was outgunned but did not throw in the towel. Their final try was scored in the hill corner through fast hands by the likeable former University player, winger Larry Hermens.
University completed their eight try haul when replacement fullback Stuart Dunbar commenced a break which went through sets of hands. When Clunies-Ross secured the ball one would have thought he was going to score his hat trick. But rather than be the megalomaniac of five pointers, Clunies-Ross unselfishly offloaded to Ingate who finished off the movement for the eighth and final try.
An impressive win to conclude the first half of the season.
By Bruce 'China' Lin
University defeated Parramatta 52-17 last Saturday at University Oval. However Parramatta showed that the hard times over the years are a mere afterthought as they showed real enterprise in their play on the day.
Receiving the ball from the kickoff, outside centre Chris Ingate straightened the attack and drew the defenders for the reintroduction of one Henry Clunies-Ross.
Last week Clunies-Ross was quicker than an overseas leader’s name. His try on Saturday was tantamount to a vapour trail down the western touchline after receiving the ball from Ingate.
Parramatta was able to hit back when a loosely marked Students blindside saw their fullback Woods glide through and score.
However, the set piece discipline of University was beginning to tell on Parramatta and two consecutive tries were attributed to University’s scrum dominance leading up to half time. At the break the score was 28-5 and a further spectacular forty minutes of rugby was in store.
Parramatta was actually the first to score after the break but this early hiatus was short lived. Once again Clunies-Ross crossed over the line after Parramatta left their blindside short.
There was a swag of more tries scored to University, but breakaway James Nonu-Carling’s effort was noteworthy as it involved a seasoned campaigner and the determination one of University’s young guns.
Receiving the ball well inside his half, centre Tom Carter busted through the Parramatta defensive line and was headed towards the grandstand corner. The defence was closing in and Carter, realising the red boots would not get him to the line, timed a pass to a supporting Nonu-Carling. The young breakaway put his head back said a quick hello to SUFC Committee Member Conn Droulias on the sideline, and ran for his life along the eastern touchline towards the grandstand corner. You could practically hear Vangelis’s 1981 theme for Chariots of Fire trailing in the background as the doggedness was etched on Nonu-Carlings face as he scored this try.
Parramatta was outgunned but did not throw in the towel. Their final try was scored in the hill corner through fast hands by the likeable former University player, winger Larry Hermens.
University completed their eight try haul when replacement fullback Stuart Dunbar commenced a break which went through sets of hands. When Clunies-Ross secured the ball one would have thought he was going to score his hat trick. But rather than be the megalomaniac of five pointers, Clunies-Ross unselfishly offloaded to Ingate who finished off the movement for the eighth and final try.
An impressive win to conclude the first half of the season.
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 13: Northern Suburbs v SUFC
For the second time this season, the club comes up against Northern Suburbs this weekend for Round 13 of competition.
Grade will be heading over the bridge to the picturesque North Sydney Oval, while Colts are at home again at St Paul's College Oval. However, despite their separate locations, all teams are united in their current focus, and that is to continue with their great form to chip away at Manly for the Club Championship!
1st Grade play a big part in the Club Championship, and have been doing well to contribute over the past few weeks. Yet they know that this is definitely not the time to rest on their laurels, even with the indifferent form Northern Suburbs have been showing recently, and they will need to come prepared on Saturday.
"[Northern Suburbs] have some very good young players and it is only a matter of time before they put it together, so we need to be at our best." said Chris Malone, SUFC Head Coach.
Director of Colts, David Haigh, knows that his Colts have a big task ahead of them to push for Club Championship points with Norths showing excellent overall form within their competition.
"Norths sit second on the Colts Club Championship, this round will have a significant bearing on the overall result and we must ensure we capitalise on this." said Haigh.
Please note - game times this week have been brought forward so they do not clash with the Wallabies test in Sydney at 3.00pm.
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 21st JUNE
North Sydney Oval
1st Grade - 1.00pm
2nd Grade - 11.25am
3rd Grade - 10.00am
Bon Andrews Oval
4th Grade - 8.40am
St Paul's Oval
1st Colts - 1.25pm
2nd Colts - 12.00pm
3rd Colts - 10.45am
For the second time this season, the club comes up against Northern Suburbs this weekend for Round 13 of competition.
Grade will be heading over the bridge to the picturesque North Sydney Oval, while Colts are at home again at St Paul's College Oval. However, despite their separate locations, all teams are united in their current focus, and that is to continue with their great form to chip away at Manly for the Club Championship!
1st Grade play a big part in the Club Championship, and have been doing well to contribute over the past few weeks. Yet they know that this is definitely not the time to rest on their laurels, even with the indifferent form Northern Suburbs have been showing recently, and they will need to come prepared on Saturday.
"[Northern Suburbs] have some very good young players and it is only a matter of time before they put it together, so we need to be at our best." said Chris Malone, SUFC Head Coach.
Director of Colts, David Haigh, knows that his Colts have a big task ahead of them to push for Club Championship points with Norths showing excellent overall form within their competition.
"Norths sit second on the Colts Club Championship, this round will have a significant bearing on the overall result and we must ensure we capitalise on this." said Haigh.
Please note - game times this week have been brought forward so they do not clash with the Wallabies test in Sydney at 3.00pm.
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 21st JUNE
North Sydney Oval
1st Grade - 1.00pm
2nd Grade - 11.25am
3rd Grade - 10.00am
Bon Andrews Oval
4th Grade - 8.40am
St Paul's Oval
1st Colts - 1.25pm
2nd Colts - 12.00pm
3rd Colts - 10.45am
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 13 Review - Students secure their second win for the season over Norths
By Bruce 'China' Lin
There is nothing better than playing at the historic North Sydney Oval on a crisp sunny winter Saturday. It is equally pleasing when the game is coupled with a University victory of 39-19 over a stoic Northern Suburbs.
Norths actually led at various stages of the first half through some clever tries. However the relentless high tempo play of the Students produced dividends. Once again when the ball was passed to speedster winger Henry Clunies-Ross University’s first try was scored. University were trailing 14-5 but the dyke was about to burst.
Receiving a ball from a North’s clearing kick Clunies-Ross commenced to burst from the blocks. This week you could say Englebert Humperdinck and Clunies-Ross would still score before the last syllable. You would expect the young winger to just run hard and score but the ball was passed back inside to a supporting breakaway in James Nonu-Carling scoring near the Moreton Bay fig tree. Those countless hours at mid week training saw that coach Nobby Malone’s set move code named ‘two dad’s’ was executed to perfection!
University’s power plays continued with tries on either side of half time to the other speedster James Dargaville. North’s were unable to thwart the discipline shown by the Students forwards. Possession was secured and the ball was recycled immaculately for the backs to use. The return of Waratah players McCutheon, Latu and Dave Dennis from their Super15 sabbaticals to be alongside their mates was clearly evident.
Playing well above his weight fullback Jack Macklin scored two tries through supporting his teammates. The last try was his best as he was the final recipient of a series of classic catch and passes through the backline.
The final quarter of the game was somewhat dour as there was limited free flowing passages detracting from the previous enterprise shown at this picturesque ground. The final score was 39-19 but the trademark of University was about to continue across the Harbour bridge at Moore Park.
The third test against the touring French team at the Sydney Football Stadium was of significance to the University club. Up to seven University players at various stages received Wallaby caps in the 39-13 victory.
The best debut was undoubtedly from big Will Skelton on his test debut when he applied his Thee Thy Tho Thumb to trample and smash his way through a French defence for a try. Congratulations to Will and all the other University players most of whom cut their teeth in colts for this victory.
By Bruce 'China' Lin
There is nothing better than playing at the historic North Sydney Oval on a crisp sunny winter Saturday. It is equally pleasing when the game is coupled with a University victory of 39-19 over a stoic Northern Suburbs.
Receiving a ball from a North’s clearing kick Clunies-Ross commenced to burst from the blocks. This week you could say Englebert Humperdinck and Clunies-Ross would still score before the last syllable. You would expect the young winger to just run hard and score but the ball was passed back inside to a supporting breakaway in James Nonu-Carling scoring near the Moreton Bay fig tree. Those countless hours at mid week training saw that coach Nobby Malone’s set move code named ‘two dad’s’ was executed to perfection!
University’s power plays continued with tries on either side of half time to the other speedster James Dargaville. North’s were unable to thwart the discipline shown by the Students forwards. Possession was secured and the ball was recycled immaculately for the backs to use. The return of Waratah players McCutheon, Latu and Dave Dennis from their Super15 sabbaticals to be alongside their mates was clearly evident.
Playing well above his weight fullback Jack Macklin scored two tries through supporting his teammates. The last try was his best as he was the final recipient of a series of classic catch and passes through the backline.
The final quarter of the game was somewhat dour as there was limited free flowing passages detracting from the previous enterprise shown at this picturesque ground. The final score was 39-19 but the trademark of University was about to continue across the Harbour bridge at Moore Park.
The third test against the touring French team at the Sydney Football Stadium was of significance to the University club. Up to seven University players at various stages received Wallaby caps in the 39-13 victory.
The best debut was undoubtedly from big Will Skelton on his test debut when he applied his Thee Thy Tho Thumb to trample and smash his way through a French defence for a try. Congratulations to Will and all the other University players most of whom cut their teeth in colts for this victory.
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 14: SUFC v West Harbour
This season we are very lucky to have a number of clubs on board for Super Saturdays, which sees both Colts and Grade teams playing at the same venue (either home or away). This is a great opportunity to get all of our boys in the same place and allow them (and our supporters!) to support each team across the club.
This weekend the club will come up against West Harbour for our last Super Saturday at home (with still one to go away at Parramatta in Round 16), and there will be lots happening!
SUFC will host its annual Services Day at Uni No.1, including a White Ribbon Charity Exhibition match before 1st Grade (kick off at 2.30pm) between SUFC and the NSW Police Rugby Union. Other attractions for the day include a visit from the NSW Mounted Police, the NSWPF Crime Prevention Vehicle and Constable Charlie the penguin!
Despite all of these exciting off-field events however, the focus for our players is on the games ahead of them.
For 1st Grade, Chris Malone, SUFC Head Coach, recognises that the big test will be in defence.
"West Harbour are a dangerous side, and indeed on their day are capable of piling on points across all of their teams" said Malone.
"Most people talk about West Harbour's backs being their great danger, which of course they are, but I think they have some very under-rated forwards. They have had the benefit of continuity with selection and will be formidable in the tight exchanges on Saturday."
In Colts, the boys will be playing at St Paul's for the last time this year against powerful West Harbour sides.
"The Pirates will be strong and hard to stop when they get close to our line so our focus this week must be to stop them in our 22m, as well as dominating the opening exchanges" said Director of Colts, David Haigh.
Another big weekend for SUFC, and we hope to see you there!
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 25th JUNE
North Sydney Oval Uni. No. 1 Oval
1st Grade - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 1.00pm
3rd Grade - 11.35am
4th Grade - 10.20am
St Paul's Oval
1st Colts - 1.00pm
2nd Colts - 11.35am
3rd Colts - 10.20am
This season we are very lucky to have a number of clubs on board for Super Saturdays, which sees both Colts and Grade teams playing at the same venue (either home or away). This is a great opportunity to get all of our boys in the same place and allow them (and our supporters!) to support each team across the club.
This weekend the club will come up against West Harbour for our last Super Saturday at home (with still one to go away at Parramatta in Round 16), and there will be lots happening!
SUFC will host its annual Services Day at Uni No.1, including a White Ribbon Charity Exhibition match before 1st Grade (kick off at 2.30pm) between SUFC and the NSW Police Rugby Union. Other attractions for the day include a visit from the NSW Mounted Police, the NSWPF Crime Prevention Vehicle and Constable Charlie the penguin!
Despite all of these exciting off-field events however, the focus for our players is on the games ahead of them.
For 1st Grade, Chris Malone, SUFC Head Coach, recognises that the big test will be in defence.
"West Harbour are a dangerous side, and indeed on their day are capable of piling on points across all of their teams" said Malone.
"Most people talk about West Harbour's backs being their great danger, which of course they are, but I think they have some very under-rated forwards. They have had the benefit of continuity with selection and will be formidable in the tight exchanges on Saturday."
In Colts, the boys will be playing at St Paul's for the last time this year against powerful West Harbour sides.
"The Pirates will be strong and hard to stop when they get close to our line so our focus this week must be to stop them in our 22m, as well as dominating the opening exchanges" said Director of Colts, David Haigh.
Another big weekend for SUFC, and we hope to see you there!
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 25th JUNE
1st Grade - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 1.00pm
3rd Grade - 11.35am
4th Grade - 10.20am
St Paul's Oval
1st Colts - 1.00pm
2nd Colts - 11.35am
3rd Colts - 10.20am
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 14 Review - Students enforce a win over the Pirates at the annual Services Day
By Bruce 'China' Lin
Sydney University continued their running rugby of recent weeks last Saturday at University Oval with a 42-19 victory over the West Harbour Pirates.
Any thoughts of committing any indictable or summary offences would be foolish as there was a bevy of police personnel on site to coincide with the club’s annual Services Day. More about the law enforcers later.
The game was less than 3 minutes old when West’s outside centre Usaia O’Sullivan was injured in a tackle and was stretchered off. We hope Usaia makes a full and speedy recovery.
There was no give or take from both sides until the constant pressure applied by the Students saw the first try to the Students. A ball from a five metre scrum was shunted to the right for winger James Dargaville to score.
University continued to press the Pirates in their 22 metre area until Tom Carter stepped up to make an entry in Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Rather than spread the ball, it was instead passed back to Carter standing in the five eighth position. Visualising that he was a hybrid Morne Steyn or Jonny Wilkinson, Carter calmly dropped his one and only Shute Shield field goal for the wily old fox to be etched in club statistics!
Carter’s action ignited the scoring from then on. Further tries came from the flying hyphen, Henry Clunies –Ross, outside centre Chris Ingate after swooping on a loose ball, and once again Carter scoring from a short ball from five eighth Stuart Dunbar. West’s centre Rory Sidey commenced his side’s points with a try stepping through a loose Students defence for a 22-7 scoreline at halftime.
As mentioned the day was the annual Services Day to recognise the NSW Police Force and also White Ribbon Day to reaffirm that violence is not tolerated against women. The Constabulary on site brought their own attractions compromising the Police Mounted Police, two tough looking officers in black from the Tactical Operations Unit who were really softies with the kids and a rather cute and furry Constable Charlie the Penguin.
There was also the annual 10’s show down to enthral the crowd between the NSW Police Rugby team and a University Presidents selection before the main game. This year the leaner Police contingent having substituted carbohydrates with a protein enriched diet avenged last years defeat by downing University 12-7. The coveted shield to the Police was presented by Deputy Commissioner Nick Kaldas and Assistant Commissioner Mark Murdoch. Well done lads!
The second half was a contrast from the first as the conditions were more beastly than a Kim Jong-un haircut. A gale was blowing, the sunshine had disappeared and the temperature was arctic like.
Undeterred by the elements, both teams for the second half continued to play attractive rugby. Tito Mua scored first for the Pirates. In a moment of exuberance the ball was intercepted by Pirate fullback Brooks for an easy converted try.
Stung by this lapse in discipline, straight from the kickoff the students hit back with an opportunist try scored by once again ‘The Count’ Henry Clunies-Ross. West’s let the ball bounce and Clunies-Ross followed through to toe through to regather and score. A further try by Dargaville and a penalty on full time saw the final score of 42-19. A solid win by University.
By Bruce 'China' Lin
Sydney University continued their running rugby of recent weeks last Saturday at University Oval with a 42-19 victory over the West Harbour Pirates.
Any thoughts of committing any indictable or summary offences would be foolish as there was a bevy of police personnel on site to coincide with the club’s annual Services Day. More about the law enforcers later.
There was no give or take from both sides until the constant pressure applied by the Students saw the first try to the Students. A ball from a five metre scrum was shunted to the right for winger James Dargaville to score.
University continued to press the Pirates in their 22 metre area until Tom Carter stepped up to make an entry in Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Rather than spread the ball, it was instead passed back to Carter standing in the five eighth position. Visualising that he was a hybrid Morne Steyn or Jonny Wilkinson, Carter calmly dropped his one and only Shute Shield field goal for the wily old fox to be etched in club statistics!
Carter’s action ignited the scoring from then on. Further tries came from the flying hyphen, Henry Clunies –Ross, outside centre Chris Ingate after swooping on a loose ball, and once again Carter scoring from a short ball from five eighth Stuart Dunbar. West’s centre Rory Sidey commenced his side’s points with a try stepping through a loose Students defence for a 22-7 scoreline at halftime.
As mentioned the day was the annual Services Day to recognise the NSW Police Force and also White Ribbon Day to reaffirm that violence is not tolerated against women. The Constabulary on site brought their own attractions compromising the Police Mounted Police, two tough looking officers in black from the Tactical Operations Unit who were really softies with the kids and a rather cute and furry Constable Charlie the Penguin.
There was also the annual 10’s show down to enthral the crowd between the NSW Police Rugby team and a University Presidents selection before the main game. This year the leaner Police contingent having substituted carbohydrates with a protein enriched diet avenged last years defeat by downing University 12-7. The coveted shield to the Police was presented by Deputy Commissioner Nick Kaldas and Assistant Commissioner Mark Murdoch. Well done lads!
The second half was a contrast from the first as the conditions were more beastly than a Kim Jong-un haircut. A gale was blowing, the sunshine had disappeared and the temperature was arctic like.
Undeterred by the elements, both teams for the second half continued to play attractive rugby. Tito Mua scored first for the Pirates. In a moment of exuberance the ball was intercepted by Pirate fullback Brooks for an easy converted try.
Stung by this lapse in discipline, straight from the kickoff the students hit back with an opportunist try scored by once again ‘The Count’ Henry Clunies-Ross. West’s let the ball bounce and Clunies-Ross followed through to toe through to regather and score. A further try by Dargaville and a penalty on full time saw the final score of 42-19. A solid win by University.
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 15: SUFC v Eastwood
Last year, each Grand Final in the Grade competition saw SUFC take on Eastwood - so needless to say, this weekend against the Woods is set to be a big one!
Furthermore, after jumping Manly in the Club Championship last weekend with our clean sweep of wins against West Harbour, and Eastwood snapping at our heels in third place, we need to get some strong wins across the board to give us a little extra breathing space heading into the last few rounds.
For 1st Grade, SUFC Head Coach, Chris Malone, knows that this crucial battle against Eastwood will be no easy task.
"With a core group of experienced players running through their team, they will be street smart and we will have to work hard for a result this week" said Malone.
It's a similar story for our Colts, with David Haigh, Director of Colts, highlighting Eastwood's overall strong club performance.
"Eastwood are currently 6th, 3rd and 2nd in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Colts competition tables respectively, meaning they will present a tough challenge this weekend" said Haigh.
And on top of all of this excitement, this weekend at Uni No.1 Oval, we will also be hosting Rounders' Day in recognition of the incredible job our SUFC Volunteers do!
Stephen "Rounders" Rowntree was one of our clubs most incredible volunteers, and he sadly passed away just last year. He spent hours each week for many seasons working as our Gear Steward, although his job definitely didn't end there! In essence, Rounders was everything a volunteer should be and more.
On Saturday, we will celebrate Rounders and his contribution to the club, and also take to time to recognise all of our incredible volunteers who give up their time for the greater good of the club.
As a big supporter of our Juniors, the day will also include a short game played by our feeder clubs, Balmain, Petersham and Cantebury, just before 1st Grade.
We hope you will join us for this big day!
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 5th July
Sydney Uni No.1
1st Grade - 3.10pm
2nd Grade - 1.15pm
3rd Grade - 11.50am
4th Grade - 10.35am
T.G. Milner Oval
1st Colts - 3.00pm
2nd Colts - 1.35pm
3rd Colts - 12.20pm
Last year, each Grand Final in the Grade competition saw SUFC take on Eastwood - so needless to say, this weekend against the Woods is set to be a big one!
Furthermore, after jumping Manly in the Club Championship last weekend with our clean sweep of wins against West Harbour, and Eastwood snapping at our heels in third place, we need to get some strong wins across the board to give us a little extra breathing space heading into the last few rounds.
For 1st Grade, SUFC Head Coach, Chris Malone, knows that this crucial battle against Eastwood will be no easy task.
"With a core group of experienced players running through their team, they will be street smart and we will have to work hard for a result this week" said Malone.
It's a similar story for our Colts, with David Haigh, Director of Colts, highlighting Eastwood's overall strong club performance.
"Eastwood are currently 6th, 3rd and 2nd in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Colts competition tables respectively, meaning they will present a tough challenge this weekend" said Haigh.
And on top of all of this excitement, this weekend at Uni No.1 Oval, we will also be hosting Rounders' Day in recognition of the incredible job our SUFC Volunteers do!
Stephen "Rounders" Rowntree was one of our clubs most incredible volunteers, and he sadly passed away just last year. He spent hours each week for many seasons working as our Gear Steward, although his job definitely didn't end there! In essence, Rounders was everything a volunteer should be and more.
On Saturday, we will celebrate Rounders and his contribution to the club, and also take to time to recognise all of our incredible volunteers who give up their time for the greater good of the club.
As a big supporter of our Juniors, the day will also include a short game played by our feeder clubs, Balmain, Petersham and Cantebury, just before 1st Grade.
We hope you will join us for this big day!
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 5th July
Sydney Uni No.1
1st Grade - 3.10pm
2nd Grade - 1.15pm
3rd Grade - 11.50am
4th Grade - 10.35am
T.G. Milner Oval
1st Colts - 3.00pm
2nd Colts - 1.35pm
3rd Colts - 12.20pm
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 15 Review - Eastwood make it two from two against SUFC so far for 2014
By Bruce 'China' Lin
Sydney University’s recent run of victories came to an end last Saturday after Eastwood inflicted a 38-22 defeat of the Students at University Oval.
Saturday’s game coincided with two other significant events. ‘Rounders Day, to recognise a club stalwart the late Stephen Rowntree for his tireless efforts as a volunteer for the club and volunteers in general, and recognition of our junior players. Players from University’s junior feeder clubs were presented to the crowd at halftime and shook hands with the masculine and feminine of the club, Waratah and Wallabies players Paddy Ryan and Bernard Foley, and Rounders daughter Catriona Rowntree.
The big hard running Eastwood players coupled with their scheming nimble five eighth Ayoub caused University much heartache in the first half. The Students were also making unnecessary mistakes which were only capitalised by Eastwood. Four tries and a bonus point were accrued by Eastwood whilst the Students could only manage a solitary penalty goal for a half time score line of 28-3. Once again University’s nemesis had got off to a big start!
As the University players ran back into the dressing rooms you could only speculate how coach Nobby Malone could get his players refocused on rugby matters.
Whatever coach Malone said during the break must have been almost as stirring as Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 Gettysburg address as the Students pieced together a mini comeback for the second half.
Once Eastwood winger John Grant was sin binned for killing the ball at a ruck, University saw this as the opportunity to give Eastwood a taste of grief through three quick tries. Amongst the tries was a fine individual effort by number eight Hugo Dessens who ran through the Eastwood defensive line for a 20 metre dash to the tryline.
With 10 minutes left in the match University were still down 31-22 and feverishly throwing the ball about to salvage a victory or some handy bonus points. Both sets of players were running themselves to a standstill and Eastwood finally prevailed when winger Batger scored a late try in the scoreboard corner after some long ball movements downfield.
A loss at home is always disappointing but the young University team showed good fight back against their fierce rival over recent years.
By Bruce 'China' Lin
Sydney University’s recent run of victories came to an end last Saturday after Eastwood inflicted a 38-22 defeat of the Students at University Oval.
The big hard running Eastwood players coupled with their scheming nimble five eighth Ayoub caused University much heartache in the first half. The Students were also making unnecessary mistakes which were only capitalised by Eastwood. Four tries and a bonus point were accrued by Eastwood whilst the Students could only manage a solitary penalty goal for a half time score line of 28-3. Once again University’s nemesis had got off to a big start!
As the University players ran back into the dressing rooms you could only speculate how coach Nobby Malone could get his players refocused on rugby matters.
Whatever coach Malone said during the break must have been almost as stirring as Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 Gettysburg address as the Students pieced together a mini comeback for the second half.
Once Eastwood winger John Grant was sin binned for killing the ball at a ruck, University saw this as the opportunity to give Eastwood a taste of grief through three quick tries. Amongst the tries was a fine individual effort by number eight Hugo Dessens who ran through the Eastwood defensive line for a 20 metre dash to the tryline.
With 10 minutes left in the match University were still down 31-22 and feverishly throwing the ball about to salvage a victory or some handy bonus points. Both sets of players were running themselves to a standstill and Eastwood finally prevailed when winger Batger scored a late try in the scoreboard corner after some long ball movements downfield.
A loss at home is always disappointing but the young University team showed good fight back against their fierce rival over recent years.
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 16: Parramatta vs. SUFC
For the last time this season, this weekend will be a Super Saturday, with all the boys heading out to Merrylands RSL Rugby Park to take on Parramatta for Round 16 - and what a huge weekend it will be!
After a difficult round last weekend against Eastwood, our position on the table for the Club Championship has dropped, now sitting in third behind Manly and Eastwood. However with strong wins across the board for the final 3 rounds, we will definitely still be in contention - so it is time to get behind the boys!
Having played Parramatta only 4 rounds ago, our teams should be well aware of what lays ahead of them, and what they need to do as a club to bounce back from a tough week.
"Having only played Parramatta a few weeks ago, we will be under no illusions as to how competitive they will be, and understand that out at Merrylands in front of a big home crowd on a Super Saturday, they will throw the kitchen sink at us" said Head Coach Chris Malone about his 1st Grade side.
David Haigh, Director of Colts, knows his Colts will come up against a similarly motivated Parramatta contingent.
"With Parramatta lingering on the outside of the threshold for teams to make the finals in each colts grade, they will be hungry to knock us off and improve their own chances of squeaking into the top six" said Haigh.
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 12th July
Merrylands RSL Rugby Park
1st Grade - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 1.25pm
1st Colts - 11.50am
2nd Colts - 10.25am
Merrylands RSL Rugby Park No.2
3rd Colts - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 12.00pm
4th Grade - 10.45am
For the last time this season, this weekend will be a Super Saturday, with all the boys heading out to Merrylands RSL Rugby Park to take on Parramatta for Round 16 - and what a huge weekend it will be!
After a difficult round last weekend against Eastwood, our position on the table for the Club Championship has dropped, now sitting in third behind Manly and Eastwood. However with strong wins across the board for the final 3 rounds, we will definitely still be in contention - so it is time to get behind the boys!
Having played Parramatta only 4 rounds ago, our teams should be well aware of what lays ahead of them, and what they need to do as a club to bounce back from a tough week.
"Having only played Parramatta a few weeks ago, we will be under no illusions as to how competitive they will be, and understand that out at Merrylands in front of a big home crowd on a Super Saturday, they will throw the kitchen sink at us" said Head Coach Chris Malone about his 1st Grade side.
David Haigh, Director of Colts, knows his Colts will come up against a similarly motivated Parramatta contingent.
"With Parramatta lingering on the outside of the threshold for teams to make the finals in each colts grade, they will be hungry to knock us off and improve their own chances of squeaking into the top six" said Haigh.
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 12th July
Merrylands RSL Rugby Park
1st Grade - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 1.25pm
1st Colts - 11.50am
2nd Colts - 10.25am
Merrylands RSL Rugby Park No.2
3rd Colts - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 12.00pm
4th Grade - 10.45am
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 16 Review - Clean sweep for Students against the Two Blues to bring the Club Championship in closer reach
By Bruce 'China' Lin
Sydney University produced seven wins across all grades in last Saturday’s Super Saturday at Merrylands RSL Rugby Park against Parramatta. An important boost in the Club Championship was achieved by the efforts from all the University teams.
Although on paper there appeared a try fest of gastronomical proportions in First Grade’s 64-26 victory, at various junctures the Two Blues showed some real inventiveness and dogged spirit in their four tries.
The game was a tight affair for the first quarter of the game until Hugo Dessens scored through a dart from the back of the scrum. Thereafter, the rapid recycling of the Students caused further tries scored by young backrower Sam Quinn, second rower Tom Boidin and that flying example for English grammar, winger Henry Clunies- Ross. University were ahead at halftime 26 -0 with a bonus point already snookered away.
But you would be classed as a brave man to write off those big men from the west. Coach Nobby Malone was impressing upon his side at the break to be wary of the swirling wind. Loose passes could be capitalised by Parramatta and change the complexion of the game in an instant. The revamped Two Blues canteen was also a little gem to sample during the break. There was a particularly roaring trade in the noodle and lamb shank hearty soup. A hearty winter accompaniment which would ignite the taste buds of Heston, Jamie or Marco Pierre White.
The wounded Parramatta came out for the second half with a Churchillian spirit by scoring two quick converted tries to narrow the score line to 26-14. University’s young guns responded with their own try after fullback Stuart Dunbar and winger James Dargaville combined with outside centre Jim Stewart to send the young strapping centre over for an excellent try. Stewart’s try was the inspiration for further tries by both teams as the ball was thrown to all corners of the ground.
In his best performance to date, inside centre James McMahon scored another try and set up one for University’s flanker David Hickey. McMahon ran towards the Parramatta try line inside the 22 metre area. McMahon later gave a delicate offload to Hickey who was running hard. Reminiscent of a Looney Tunes Tassie Devil, Hickey smashed, bumped and shredded the Parramatta defence for a gutsy five pointer.
With the countdown to the finals series, University will be focused on trying to achieve another Club Championship and no doubt a tough finals campaign.
Next week against Gordon, University host their annual Ladies Day where University Oval will be a sea of fun, fashion and fillies!
By Bruce 'China' Lin
Sydney University produced seven wins across all grades in last Saturday’s Super Saturday at Merrylands RSL Rugby Park against Parramatta. An important boost in the Club Championship was achieved by the efforts from all the University teams.
Although on paper there appeared a try fest of gastronomical proportions in First Grade’s 64-26 victory, at various junctures the Two Blues showed some real inventiveness and dogged spirit in their four tries.
The game was a tight affair for the first quarter of the game until Hugo Dessens scored through a dart from the back of the scrum. Thereafter, the rapid recycling of the Students caused further tries scored by young backrower Sam Quinn, second rower Tom Boidin and that flying example for English grammar, winger Henry Clunies- Ross. University were ahead at halftime 26 -0 with a bonus point already snookered away.
But you would be classed as a brave man to write off those big men from the west. Coach Nobby Malone was impressing upon his side at the break to be wary of the swirling wind. Loose passes could be capitalised by Parramatta and change the complexion of the game in an instant. The revamped Two Blues canteen was also a little gem to sample during the break. There was a particularly roaring trade in the noodle and lamb shank hearty soup. A hearty winter accompaniment which would ignite the taste buds of Heston, Jamie or Marco Pierre White.
The wounded Parramatta came out for the second half with a Churchillian spirit by scoring two quick converted tries to narrow the score line to 26-14. University’s young guns responded with their own try after fullback Stuart Dunbar and winger James Dargaville combined with outside centre Jim Stewart to send the young strapping centre over for an excellent try. Stewart’s try was the inspiration for further tries by both teams as the ball was thrown to all corners of the ground.
In his best performance to date, inside centre James McMahon scored another try and set up one for University’s flanker David Hickey. McMahon ran towards the Parramatta try line inside the 22 metre area. McMahon later gave a delicate offload to Hickey who was running hard. Reminiscent of a Looney Tunes Tassie Devil, Hickey smashed, bumped and shredded the Parramatta defence for a gutsy five pointer.
With the countdown to the finals series, University will be focused on trying to achieve another Club Championship and no doubt a tough finals campaign.
Next week against Gordon, University host their annual Ladies Day where University Oval will be a sea of fun, fashion and fillies!
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 17: SUFC vs. Gordon
Only 2 round games to go and the excitement is brewing!
A great performance by all teams last weekend means we are quickly closing the gap for the Club Championship - just another two successful rounds by all teams and we are very strong contenders to take out the title!
So make sure you get down to the game on the weekend at Uni No.1 Oval to support the boys through this important stage of the season - and if that isn't enough of a reason, this weekend will also be Ladies Day, so bring the girls along for a beautiful High Tea Lunch and drinks, while the boys watch the game (see flyer below for more information).
In terms of the rugby however, 1st Grade are looking to continue their strength from Parramatta into this weekend's clash against Gordon, and Chris Malone has faith that his young side will be able to keep developing as they reach the finals.
"We have a young and exciting side that is learning to live with the expectation that the cavalry from Super Rugby are not rolling back into the club as they have in seasons past. This is a fantastic opportunity for our guys, one that I am very much looking forward to" said Malone.
We look forward to seeing you all at the game this weekend to support our boys!
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 18th July
Uni No.1 Oval
1st Grade - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 1.25pm
3rd Grade - 12.00pm
4th Grade - 10.45am
Chatswood Oval
1st Colts - 3.00pm
2nd Colts - 1.35pm
3rd Colts - 12.20pm
Only 2 round games to go and the excitement is brewing!
A great performance by all teams last weekend means we are quickly closing the gap for the Club Championship - just another two successful rounds by all teams and we are very strong contenders to take out the title!
So make sure you get down to the game on the weekend at Uni No.1 Oval to support the boys through this important stage of the season - and if that isn't enough of a reason, this weekend will also be Ladies Day, so bring the girls along for a beautiful High Tea Lunch and drinks, while the boys watch the game (see flyer below for more information).
In terms of the rugby however, 1st Grade are looking to continue their strength from Parramatta into this weekend's clash against Gordon, and Chris Malone has faith that his young side will be able to keep developing as they reach the finals.
"We have a young and exciting side that is learning to live with the expectation that the cavalry from Super Rugby are not rolling back into the club as they have in seasons past. This is a fantastic opportunity for our guys, one that I am very much looking forward to" said Malone.
We look forward to seeing you all at the game this weekend to support our boys!
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 18th July
Uni No.1 Oval
1st Grade - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 1.25pm
3rd Grade - 12.00pm
4th Grade - 10.45am
Chatswood Oval
1st Colts - 3.00pm
2nd Colts - 1.35pm
3rd Colts - 12.20pm
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Round 16 Review - "There are no more easy games ahead and standards must be lifted further" says Vickerman
By Bruce 'China' Lin
Sydney University defeated Gordon 32-20 on a bitterly cold day at University Oval No: 1 last Saturday.
There appeared early signs of a free flowing game despite the Siberian conditions when the ball was moved through the hands for a second minute try to winger James Dargaville. But Gordon quickly struck back with an intercept to their breakaway Dempsey to level the scores 7-7. University appeared to hold the momentum but Gordon were equally committed to taking the game up to the Students.
Returning from Super Rugby duties with the Melbourne Rebels, Angus Roberts showed his skills with some neat footwork to slice through the Gordon defence for the first of his two tries. The 14-7 scoreline was again short lived following an adventurous chip and chase length of the field try by the speedy Gordon winger for the Highlanders to lead 15-14. The see sawing scoreline changed before halftime after a Dan Kelly penalty gave the Students a slender lead of 17-15.
The day also coincided with the club’s Ladies Day. This annual event is always a good excuse for the club’s lady supporters to enjoy the day sampling tasty treats and quaffing some Pink bubbly as demonstrated by Ladies Day ambassadors Mesdames Hickey and Boidin. Unfortunately last year’s sensation - The Kissing Booth was not functioning.
The second half scoring commenced with a five metre scrum surge which shunted the Gordon pack to the hills of St John’s College. As if he found a winning Powerball ticket, University halfback Jock Merriman with the assistance of his steamrolling pack was elated to take advantage of a gaping hole in the Gordon defence for a converted try under the posts.
Usually this event would trigger University to raise the pace. Another try was scored by Angus Roberts through quick passing amongst the backline but there were also some missed opportunities. A potentially spectacular individual effort by The Talented Mr Clunies-Ross was knocked on at the final hurdle in the grandstand corner.
The final 15 minutes of the match failed to reach the impact of an ecumenical gathering, as University’s traditional discipline was marred with mistakes, penalties a sin binning and a late easy try to Gordon.
The cliché – a win’s a win was apt to describe the day. With one final round remaining and a sudden death finals campaign awaiting, assistant coach Dan Vickerman’s words after the game will resonate amongst the team , there are no more easy games ahead and standards must be lifted further.
boyo
Mark Ella (57)
Better late than never
Round 18: SUFC vs. Eastern Suburbs
This weekend our SUFC boys will come up against Eastern Suburbs in the last game of the regular season, and there is a lot on the line when it comes to the Club Championship.
Just 13 points in front of Manly after our clean sweep of wins against Gordon last weekend, it is really coming down to the wire...
"Our No.1 goal is to win the Club Championship in 2014 and to do so without the cavalry arriving en masse from Super Rugby would be a remarkable achievement." says Head Coach Chris Malone.
"One big push needs to happen this weekend and we wish all of our teams the best of luck this Saturday."
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 26th July
Uni No.1 Oval
1st Grade - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 1.25pm
3rd Grade - 12.00pm
4th Grade - 10.45am
Woollahra Oval
1st Colts - 3.00pm
2nd Colts - 1.35pm
3rd Colts - 12.20pm
Round 18: SUFC vs. Eastern Suburbs
This weekend our SUFC boys will come up against Eastern Suburbs in the last game of the regular season, and there is a lot on the line when it comes to the Club Championship.
Just 13 points in front of Manly after our clean sweep of wins against Gordon last weekend, it is really coming down to the wire...
"Our No.1 goal is to win the Club Championship in 2014 and to do so without the cavalry arriving en masse from Super Rugby would be a remarkable achievement." says Head Coach Chris Malone.
"One big push needs to happen this weekend and we wish all of our teams the best of luck this Saturday."
For full team lists, please click here.
GAME TIMES
SATURDAY 26th July
Uni No.1 Oval
1st Grade - 3.00pm
2nd Grade - 1.25pm
3rd Grade - 12.00pm
4th Grade - 10.45am
Woollahra Oval
1st Colts - 3.00pm
2nd Colts - 1.35pm
3rd Colts - 12.20pm
- Status