VRU 2014

[oztimmay]

Missed the Hills v Rams game, jetlag got the better of me and awoke from a 'quick nap' at around 4:30pm. Sounded like a tight one. Bearing in mind the low base they are starting from, to remain near the top of the competition is a great effort from the broncos.

So, I see 'house are having a tough one this year. But of a surprise, considering they had a relatively good one last year.

 

[KevinO]

So, I see 'house are having a tough one this year. But of a surprise, considering they had a relatively good one last year.

Was 45-0 and house scored 2 late try's. Caught the last 10 minutes after my game finished. Footscray was very physical in all grades, had 3 yellow cards in my game for shoulder charges.

Hopefully being back lakeside and having two grounds to train on will help get back on track.

 

[en_force_er]

Hopefully being back lakeside and having two grounds to train on will help get back on track.

I'm sure it makes life easier for those city workers, not sure about the back packers.

 

[pablo]

G’day & Bonjour,
Please be advised that the Power House Rugby Club will be holding a Presidents Test Match Rugby Lunch on Friday the 13th of June 2014. ( yes on the 13th) prior to the Wallabies V France on the 14th.

Location: Duke of Wellington Hotel…Level 1…take the stairs or lift. ( one block from Flinders Street Station)
Address: Cnr Flinders & Russell Streets, City.
Time: 1.00pm to 4.00pm.
Lunch: Entrée: Antipasto, Main: Steak or Chicken, Cheese Platters plus tea & coffee.
Cost : $130.00
Please note…. 100 Guests Only.
Payments….please see flyer…cut off 23rd of May.
Speakers: CEO of the Melbourne Rebels..Mr Rob Clarke, plus two other to be advised.

 

[pablo]

I'm sure it makes life easier for those city workers, not sure about the back packers.

The eternal stuggle for Power House in the early part of the season, no home and no stability.....same year in year out! Now we just have to hope that the traditional second half momentum swings in ASAP, can't remember a start like this in a while!

 

[en_force_er]

The eternal stuggle for Power House in the early part of the season, no home and no stability...same year in year out! Now we just have to hope that the traditional second half momentum swings in ASAP, can't remember a start like this in a while!

TBH I don't think it's as much training facilities as players.

I've noticed a lot of guys is PH's 2nds last year playing 1sts. Don't get me wrong, it was an okay 2nds team but it's a huge jump.

 

[elementfreak]

Went down to the Box Hill game, Moorabbin got a red in the first 5 and still almost won.

Missed opportunity for BH who played their hearts out and had some special players but you always got the sense they were just holding on.

I heard Moorabbin scored right on the hooter to level the scores. Everything I have heard seemed to say that Moorabbin were able to slow down the high tempo game of Box Hill's pretty effectively.

 

[en_force_er]

I heard Moorabbin scored right on the hooter to level the scores. Everything I have heard seemed to say that Moorabbin were able to slow down the high tempo game of Box Hill's pretty effectively.

They played 14 men for almost a whole game, though it was true that they evened it on the buzzer.

They certainly had the run of play in the 2nd half and there's no doubt in my mind they'd have run away with it with 15 men.

 

[pablo]

TBH I don't think it's as much training facilities as players.

I've noticed a lot of guys is PH's 2nds last year playing 1sts. Don't get me wrong, it was an okay 2nds team but it's a huge jump.

i undersatnd it isn't the only factor but you'd be sursprised how much it can comeinto it, training in different locations as far as Altona, odd bits off space here and there, etc. comes into play.

Agree the players need to step up and the club needs to find some genuine leaders. When you look at the current side compared to the past few years there has been a lot of the older players/leaders have moved on and not been replaced....and some that are probably hanging on as there is no one to step up.

 

[oztimmay]

i undersatnd it isn't the only factor but you'd be sursprised how much it can comeinto it, training in different locations as far as Altona, odd bits off space here and there, etc. comes into play.

Agree the players need to step up and the club needs to find some genuine leaders. When you look at the current side compared to the past few years there has been a lot of the older players/leaders have moved on and not been replaced..and some that are probably hanging on as there is no one to step up.

Is Al Latu still the president?

 

[elementfreak]

They played 14 men for almost a whole game, though it was true that they evened it on the buzzer.

They certainly had the run of play in the 2nd half and there's no doubt in my mind they'd have run away with it with 15 men.

The two tries that Box Hill scored were just from set play and it was the only time they really used their backs. If they had kept doing that then I think they would have run away with it.

Was the RC justified?

Is Al Latu still the president?

Yeah Al is still president.

 

[oztimmay]

Yeah Al is still president.

Thought so, he seems good at that type of role and thought he might have taken on that role if he stuck around at Box Hill. The reason I ask is I found the comments about powerhouse requiring leadership a little strange as I think he would fit the bill. Perhaps it's more on-field leadership the 'house are after - guess every side needs player regeneration at certain stages.

 

[pablo]

Thought so, he seems good at that type of role and thought he might have taken on that role if he stuck around at Box Hill. The reason I ask is I found the comments about powerhouse requiring leadership a little strange as I think he would fit the bill. Perhaps it's more on-field leadership the 'house are after - guess every side needs player regeneration at certain stages.

On field, missing from the last few seasons are J Blanksby, P Daly, M McIlroy, T Broughton, C Aho, S Knowles, S Dellabarca, T Sweetman, K Apuula, S Baker, I Bolalailai...can go on...and their captain isn't playing at the moment. Fair few leaders and a lot of experience gone there.

 

[en_force_er]

The two tries that Box Hill scored were just from set play and it was the only time they really used their backs. If they had kept doing that then I think they would have run away with it.

Was the RC justified?

By my recollection that isn't what happened and BH's issues was the fact their forwards didn't build a platform rather than that they didn't use their backs. I was only spectating though in the truest sense, not analysing, so I could be wrong.

I don't know about the RC. There was a big commotion in the far corner and I didn't hear any complaints.[/quote]

 

[pablo]

I don't know about the RC. There was a big commotion in the far corner and I didn't hear any complaints.

Surely the Victorian refs would make a mistake like that?!?!?!?!

 

[elementfreak]

Surely the Victorian refs would make a mistake like that?!?!?!?!

Got some info about it. 2 kicks to the player on the ground, surely people can't complain about that being a RC.

Head Coaches provide their 'Players to Watch' ahead of another fascinating round in Victoria's Premier Club Rugby competition.
Last weekend saw a record twelve RaboDirect Rebels featuring in the Dewar Shield competition, with the Club enjoying a bye in Super Rugby. Head Coach Tony McGahan was among the interested onlookers, taking in the clash between Melbourne and Melbourne Uni, during a fascinating round of action. Catch up on all the results here, as Moorabbin dropped their first points of the season... but still didn't lose!
This weekend, Footscray have the bye; a tough week to have it, coming on the back of their first victory of the 2014 season. Southern Districts also enjoyed their first win last week, but Power House will be hoping to emulate that feat when they travel to play the Pirates.
The Rams host the in-form Unicorns in what shapes as the clash of the round, while Quins return from the bye to face a Box Hill side without a defeat in their last four matches. Melbourne Uni and Endeavour Hills round out the action, in a game that is very tough to call.
Moorabbin vs. Melbourne Unicorns:
Jordy Reid and Telusa Veainu will line up for Unicorns against unbeaten Moorabbin first up. The Unicorns will fancy themselves here, and after a hugely-impressive Dewar Shield debut last week speedster Veainu will be looking to score some points and hopefully work his way into Tony McGahan's squad to feature against the Hurricanes in Round Thirteen's Super Rugby action.
Players to watch - Moorabbin:
"Lock Alex Fowles was fast tracked to first grade from our Colts side this year due to injuries and the lack of genuine locks," explains Rams' Head Coach Ben Perenise. "He was going to be eased into the first grade environment at some stage but made his debut against Endeavour Hills back in Round Two and since then he has made the jersey his own. He has matured well for a young man and he hasn't looked out of place, competing well in the lineouts as well as making tackles and even getting a couple of breaks on attack. He has a long future in the team and the game.
"Flyhalf Patolo Toeta is another one of our Colts players promoted to first grade. However, 'Patty' is no stranger to this level of Rugby as he was involved with the Australian Schoolboys in 2013 and he had been training with the Rebels during summer. He's another player who is maturing well and finding his feet at first grade level. He enjoys attacking the line and has no issues on defence."
Players to watch - Melbourne:
"Hooker Jeremy Focas-Turk hooker moved over from Wellington Rugby, and has been in consistent lineout form throwing (around the high 80% mark)," said Ellis Meachen, Unicorns' Director of Rugby.
"His increased fitness and game awareness has made him a valuable member of the pack.
"Fellow front-rower Atta Manu was impressive in his first start in Premier Grade, and has increased the pressure on the other props in the squad. Atta is a ball running prop with good technique at the set piece."
Harlequin vs. Box Hill:
Alex Rokobaro and Ben Meehan make the switch from teammates to rivals, as 2013 champion Quins square off against last year's wooden-spooners for the 'Bruce Bailey Blazer'.
Players to watch - Harlequin:
"Maradona Farao returns from injury this week, and will be playing his preferred position of scrumhalf," said Quins' Head Coach Craig McGrath. "'Dona' is a big defender and plugs holes when required in our defensive line. Like all good scrumhalves he's never short of a word, and he is looking forward to the challenge of playing against his old Club on Saturday.
"Big flanker OJ Noa was a very dominant in the air last time out, stealing quite a few of Footscray's ball at lineout time. His repeat efforts around the park were also much better, and he seems to be coming into form at the right time. I'm looking forward to seeing him with ball in hand, and his work in defence."
Players to watch - Box Hill:
"Alex Healey is playing his debut season for the Box Hill Club," explained Broncos' Head Coach Andrew Slyfield. "He is a very young man but brings a cool head at the very back and controls the back three well. Alex arrived at the Club soon after representing South Australia in the interstate Under 20s competition, and can play either at flyhalf or fullback; this season, he has been a constant threat.
"Mo Haukinima brings a lot of experience and physical presence to this Box Hill side and is at the heart of our forward pack. He had a really strong game last week and was excellent in the physical contest. He is a great motivator and also leads by example. Box Hill will be looking for another strong game from Mo this week if we are going to compete against the 2013 champions."
Melbourne Uni vs. Endeavour Hills
Steve Fualau and Sam Jeffries will represent the Rebels in this fixture, as Uni look to hit back after a big defeat last week in front of Rebels' Head Coach Tony McGahan. Fualau will battle Rebel Eddie Aholelei in the front row, while flyhalf Jack Debreczeni also lines up for Endeavour Hills after making his Club debut last week.
Players to watch - Melbourne Uni:
"It's a long season and things have been building quite well so far this year but Rugby has a funny way of biting you on the backside," says Uni Head Coach Jason Jones. "Whilst we have had a few close wins this year, we still have not played anywhere near our potential yet and we are simply not playing our game plan. We have to get back on the training paddock this week and just work harder; I am confident you will see a much improved performance this week.
"Sam Richards returns to the side this week, and his aggressive presence will be much needed against a big Hills pack. Sam has always been an abrasive lock/backrower, but this season he has really worked hard on delivering consistent performances and let his Rugby do the talking. He will definitely add some bite back to our young side.
"James Nettleton returns this week after missing last week's game with a finger injury. His game management and kicking game in particular will be an asset this week, and it provides us flexibility with the outside backs to try a few things."
Players to watch - Endeavour Hills:
"Second rower Virgil Taua'a is one of our young brigade," said Hills' Head Coach John Eden. "He's a good, tall, young fellow (aged just 20 years old). He gives us good options in the lineouts and around the paddock.
"Toese Vositu has been playing fullback, but we have bought him into inside centre to give us some additional midfield punch. He's a strong runner who always breaks first tackles. The last couple of years he has been playing for Randwick 1sts and 2nds in Sydney's Shute Shield; we're expecting a great, strong game from him.
Power House vs. Southern Districts:
These two sides entered 2014 with finals aspirations, however it is proving to be a tough season for both, especially Power House. Head Coach Glenn Fowles has had to deal with a great deal of injury and illness, and was this week not able to provide players to watch as he won't know who is fit until later in the week. They are winless, but as a proud Club will back themselves to claim a first win against the Pirates, who enjoyed victory for the first time last weekend against Endeavour Hills. Former Brumby Tom Cox will again line up for Power House.
Players to watch - Power House: Not provided
Players to watch - Southern Districts:
"Suka Fakahua was scoring tries in 1st grade back in 2011 as a young 19 year old," explains Pirates' Head Coach Ross Sander. "The following two years, Suka's focus shifted to work whilst starting a family with his lovely partner Ashleigh. Returning to the field in 2014, Suka has made the most of every opportunity that has come his way. He has managed two tries from three starts with limited game time, and doesn't mind contact in close quarters; when in space he has the necessary speed to finish out wide.
"Another welcome return to the field in 2014 is Malofou Feterika. Sidelined for the entire 2013 season, 'Malo' never strayed too far from the 'Pirate Ship' and was often seen supporting from the sideline or running water. With a strong upper body, powerful fend and exceptional acceleration, Malo has the ability to scatter defence. He would be the first to admit that he has some work to do to match his form from 2011/12 (when he trained with the Rebels), but with the way he applies himself at training I do not doubt he will get there."
Check out the full Dewar Shield table here, and check the website on Saturday for each side's full team list.

 

[elementfreak]

This week in the Dewar Shield will see last year's champions Harlequins up against Box Hill, with the game also taking on an added dimension as the teams fight it out for the Bruce Bailey blazer.
This somewhat unique prize is to honour the contribution of Bruce Bailey to Rugby as a player, coach and administrator - most notably his achievement in coaching premierships at both Box Hill and Harlequins - in a Rugby community known for its fierce rivalries.
Bruce represented both NSW Country and ultimately Australia at test level. As a test player he played alongside legendary Harlequin David Shepard. As a coach, he brought success at first grade level in the 1970s, firstly at Box Hill and then at Harlequin after being lured to switch Clubs for the 1975 season. He later also served as President at Box Hill and remained a stalwart of their Club until his death.
In honour of his contribution to both Box Hill and Harlequin, Bruce's widow Beth agreed to donate Bruce's blazer from the 1963 Wallabies tour to South Africa. The blazer is mounted in an impressively large frame and is presented annually to the winning team in one Box Hill v Harlequin match each year, with Bruce's family members invited to attend and present the trophy to the winning team.
This year it is Harlequins' turn to host and they will also be looking to defend the Blazer against a resurgent Box Hill side. The two Clubs are close neighbours in Melbourne's eastern suburbs and there are other strong historical links between them. Taking to the side for Harlequin will be two ex-Box Hill players in Lloyd Johanssen and Maradona Farao. Adding some additional spice to the rivalry is that Box Hill's current first grade coach Andrew Slyfield previously coached Harlequin's second grade team from 2007 to 2011.
Box Hill had a tough season in 2013 but with the addition of impressive new recruits the Broncos have been the big improver this year. With Harlequin and Box Hill sitting third and fourth on the ladder respectively, expect a close and tough contest with the addition of Melbourne Rebels' Alex Rokobaro for Quins and Ben Meehan for Box Hill. The game kicks off at 3pm at Ashwood reserve.

 

[swingpass]

results
box hill get to wear the blazer

DEWAR | Round 6 #DewarShield Moorabbin 19 def Melb 11. Box Hill 29 def Quins 14. Melb Uni 27 def End Hills 17. Power House 20 def Southern 3

 

[oztimmay]

Makes me pleased to see Bruce's wallabies blazer back at sparks reserve.

 

[swingpass]

from the rebels website Dewar Shield game reports

A full re-cap of an enthralling wet day's action in Round 6 of the Dewar Shield
HARLEQUIN 14 v 29 BOX HILL Ashwood Reserve, Power Avenue, Ashwood
2013 Champion Harlequin has been humbled by an outstanding second half performance from last year's Wooden Spoon winners Box Hill, with the Broncos claiming the Bruce Bailey Blazer in a 15 point victory.
In a game where the lead see-sawed, Box Hill scored the final three tries to secure victory.
Harlequin Head Coach Craig McGrath, who praised Box Hill for their turnaround from last year, was again impressed by the performance of Rebel Alex Rokobaro in a losing side.
"It was a tough game played in tough conditions," said McGrath. "Box Hill were a quality opponent and definitely deserved the win.
"Alex had a very good game. He was busy at the back, kicked intelligently and looked very threatening whenever he touched the ball. He was our player of the day."
For Box Hill Head Coach Andrew Slyfield, the win was a testament to the hard work of his players, who concentrated their training on playing in the wet and making a significant change to their wide running style of play. Slyfield was also once again full of praise for young Rebels scrumhalf Ben Meehan, who has gone from strength to strength with the side.
"It was great to see all of our work during the week pay off," said Slyfield. "The result was particularly pleasing for players like Sione Puamau, Adam Lewis, Mo Haukinima, and Drew Collins who all played last season, had great games and gave it their all on the field.
"This was our first win over a top five team so we will get a lot of confidence from that. We look at the season as being more of a marathon than a sprint, but it is nice to be rewarded as we go through games.
"Ben Meehan was a constant threat throughout the game; his professional attitude is really helping all the players around him. He was a great calming influence on the team, especially when we had to weather the storm that came from Harlequins straight after half time. With this form we expect to see him back in a Rebels jersey sometime soon and the Club will be really pleased if we can help him do that."
Harlequin 14 Tries: Olajuwon Noa, Pum Simona. Conversions: Lloyd Johansson (2). Penalties: nil.
Box Hill 29 Tries: Teo Fudakowski, Drew Collins, Sefanaia Naivalu, Filipe Koroibola, Alex Healy. Conversions: Sefanaia Naivalu (2)
POWER HOUSE 20 v 3 SOUTHERN DISTRICTS Albert Park, Lakeside Drive, Albert Park
Power House have recorded a much needed victory, their first for 2014, holding Southern Districts tryless for a 20-3 win at home.
'House came into the game low on form and lacking confidence, with a leaky defence resulting in the side giving away over 80 more points than any other side in their first four games of the season.
The visitors struggled with the conditions, unable to adapt with the wind and rain, and were unable to match the gusto and effort of Power House according to Pirates' head coach Ross Sanders.
"It was one of the most uninspiring games of football I've ever witnessed," admitted Sanders. "It's been a long time since we've been held tr less for the entire 80 minutes. Power House adjusted better to the difficult wet and windy conditions and played with a lot more energy and enthusiasm.
"Junior Tuala was our best forward with numerous ball carries and a high work rate in defence. Mete Henare, who debuted at half back also performed well in difficult conditions."
Power House Head Coach Glenn Fowles was pleased with the first win, and enjoyed being able to return to their usual home ground at Albert Park.
"The game was the first that 'House has been able to play at its normal home venue of Albert Park, having only gained approval since the Australian Grand Prix to use the ground on the day before the match," said Fowles, "The game also corresponded with a bout of torrential rain which saw a very high number of handling errors from both teams; it wasn't a pretty spectacle, but we'll take the badly needed four points."
"Our best were the halves pairing of Romeo Ah-Fook and Sean Cressy who both played well in what was their first start in the senior side."
Power House 20 Tries: Isei Feloko, Tama Sweetman, Sean Cressy. Conversions: Adam Millgate. Penalties: Jordan Schmidt
Southern Districts 3 Tries: nil. Conversions: nil. Penalties: Gasa Tia Tia
MOORABBIN 19 def 11 MELBOURNE Keys Rod Reserve, 90A Keys Road, Cheltenham North
Moorabbin has recorded its fifth win in a low scoring top of the table battle against the Unicorns, the perfect way to celebrate former Samoan international Lualua Vailoaloa's 100thSenior game with the Club.
The Unicorns got the game off to a good start, scoring the only try of the first half and maintaining the majority of possession to take a 0-5 lead into the break. Moorabbin came out switched on in the second half, finding more of the ball and creating better scoring opportunities in testing conditions, scoring three tries to none to skip into the lead.
Unicorns' Director of Rugby Ellis Meachen was delighted with his side's opening half effort, however was frustrated with their inability to match Moorabbin in the second half.
"Over all it was a disappointing result," Meachen said. "Playing into the wind in the first half we played disciplined Rugby, keeping the ball close and taking to opposition forwards on. An excellent move off an attacking lineout led to a driving maul and try to Jeremy Focas-Turk. Craig Chartiers was controlling the lineouts and the forwards were hunting as a pack," said Meachen of their first half display.
"Turning into the wind in the second half we lost our wail and failed to use the wind effectively. A chip kick from the Rams had them deep inside our territory and they were able to take advantage and completely change the momentum."
"Jordy Reid had a good game but left the field late with an elbow injury. Telusa Veainu was effective at fullback, continually gaining metres and keeping the ball in hand in the first half. He wasn't as prominent in the second as we failed to get the ball to any players man on man."
Rams' Head Coach Ben Perenise was pleased to see his side's unbeaten start to the season continue.
"The boys stepped up against traditional rivals Melbourne and were able to walk away with the points," he said. "Basic errors in the first half meant we couldn't string any phases for long periods. We did that in the second half and were able to control the game from there.
"Joe Kamana was again at his attacking best, scoring a great solo effort try. Prop Ropate Rinakama had a strong game up front, steadying our scrums, and was good with ball in hand. Our young flyhalf Patolo Toeta had a quiet first half but got a lot more involved in the second half, and contributed well."
Moorabbin 19 Tries: Ano Kapeli, Joseph Kamana, Malo Young-Yen. Conversions: Patolo Toeta (2) Penalties: nil.
Melbourne 11 Tries: Jeremy Focas-Turk. Conversions: nil. Penalties: Chris Slade. Drop Goals: Chris Slade.
MELBOURNE UNI 27 v 17 ENDEAVOUR HILLS HG Smith Oval, Macarthur Road, Parkville
Melbourne University have returned to the winners list following two losses in a row, with a comfortable 27-17 over Endeavour Hills.
The students had nine first choice players out last week when they were belted by the Unicorns, however were at near full strength for the clash against 'Hills. The win puts University on equal points with the Unicorns, and propels them into the top four, pushing 2013 Champions Harlequin into fifth.
For Endeavour Hills' Head Coach John Eden it was another trying week on the park as the side have been unable to reignite their early season form, now with four losses on the trot. Despite this, Eden was impressed with his allocated Rebels and has once again praised the work of his forward pack.
"Once again we had a frustrating week," said Eden, "We will have another crack next week; we're not winning but we have been competitive, so we will just have to keep working on improving the little things."
"Eddie Aholelei is taking a much more involved and leadership role in the team and I think this is showing in the way the forwards are playing. Our scrums were very dominant against a much heavier pack. Our line outs were smart and competitive. This was mainly due to some smart calling by our forwards leader and best on ground, Reuben Rolleston. Virgil Tauua was very good in the air as well.
"Jack Debreczeni had a roving role, moving between flyhalf and fullback throughout the game. He worked well in both positions, and I'd really like to see him continue to improve on his decision making and leadership skills in the coming weeks with us."
For Melbourne Uni Head Coach Jason Jones, it was a solid win for the side, however Jones recognises there is plenty of work to be done if the students are to match the top sides.
"It was good to bounce back from a disappointing performance last weekend and the win keeps us in contact with the top four, but improvements must be made if we are going to seriously challenge at the pointy end of the season," said Jones.
"Our big forwards were charging into the teeth of 'Hills all day, with Steve Fualau and Chris Aho standing out. Both Sam (Jeffries) and Steve have become incredibly important to the side. Sam put in another outstanding 80 minute performance and you could really see how much we missed Steve last week; his set piece was a feature and his radar like darts into the lineout are bankable."
"Ryan O'Sullivan was player of the day, he has class written all over him and with the added beef this season he has really been able to step up to a higher level. Josh Tamanisua was great on the flank again; nothing he does is passive and he's constantly there to cover in defence."
Melbourne University 27 Tries: Craig Cowley (2), Sam Jeffries. Conversions: James Nettleton (3) Penalties: James Nettleton (2).
Endeavour Hills 17 John Tavuvasa (2), Toese Vousiutu. Conversions: Jack Debreczeni. Penalties: nil.
Click here to see the Dewar Shield table.