Sydney University
Vs
Eastern Suburbs.
2 August 2025
By Bruce China Lin
In inclement weather conditions University failed to exact a victory over competition heavyweights Eastern Suburbs last Saturday at Woollahra Oval. University were defeated 42-15 to probably end their semi finals aspirations.
University were running the ball from the outset with loosehead prop Tom Lambert causing havoc. Both sides scored early penalties to be three apiece. The ball was being recycled rapidly and soon University were pressing the Easts line.
Whilst attacking the scoreboard corner a quick shift down the blindside saw a deliberate knockdown which probably would have resulted in a Students try. For that indiscretion a penalty try was awarded and University were momentarily ahead 10-3.
But the pacesetting team from the salubrious Bellevue Hill where Australian comic icon Vince Sorrenti created history by being the first person to migrate there from Punchbowl came hurtling back.
A five metre rolling maul commenced their run for them to reach parity 10-10.
Later a loose ball was identified by their Waratah halfback Wilson. As if he was a closet *biblioklept Wilson swept on the ball sliced through a gap outpaced the defence linked with his winger Lancaster and Easts were in for another converted try to lead now 15-10.
Four minutes later another rolling maul try saw Easts ahead 20-10. However University were not about to rest thinking just to hold them till halftime.
University were able to set a five metre lineout. This time Waratah secondrower the towering Ben Grant powered over. 20-15 was the halftime score as both sides adjourned to the dour Hogwarts like dressing sheds.
Unfortunately University could not increase their halftime scoreline as Easts went into overdrive grinding the Students relentlessly. Their well drilled style of play could not be countered by University.
The last five minutes actually flattered Easts with some relatively easy points scored. Momentum was hard to counter and Easts had all of it on this occasion to run out 42-15 victors.
The day was not all gloom with a sterling victory by the club’s sublime seconds against an aggressive opposition. Coaches Burge and Jensen are peaking their team at the right time of the season. With the seamless management of managers Devlin & Crawford the sublime captaincy of Sam Bignold will be a treat to behold in the forthcoming matches.
Next week is the last home game for University against Eastwood. Perhaps a raucous crowd be in attendance to cheer on the blue and gold in their last game of the regular season?
*Biblioklept – refers to a person who steals books.