Sydney University
vs
Eastwood
By Bruce ‘China’ Lin
10 August 2024
The penultimate game for the regular 2024 season saw a solid 38-17 victory against Eastwood at University.
In ideal conditions the Students were bolstered today with some size in the pack. Debutuant former Melbourne Rebel breakaway Leafi Talataina and returning loose head prop Waratah Tom Lambert provided a solid platform for University to unleash some white lightning rugby.
University from the outset was recycling the ball rapidly not allowing Eastwood any opportunity to mount any meaningful attack The ball was spread wide inside the Eastwood five metre zone at the five minute mark. Winger Jack Matthews received the ball following a long looping pass and dived in the corner for a five pointer. Bubba a family nickname that only the family matriarch his mother Ruth Matthews can elaborate could not convert the wide kick but the Students were off the mark.
The hits still continued with tries by hooker Tom Horton and winger George Poolman. Then a sign of what lies ahead next season the best try of the year was laid. Virtually half the team handled the ball backing each other up from midfield. Prop Brad Amituanai started proceedings by shredding the Eastwood first line of defence with a rampaging gallop. Then rapid recycling saw the ball move through multiple sets of hands. Backs and forwards all wanted to get their hands on the ball rushing towards the blindside. The end result saw five eighth Joey Fowler tip toeing to score in the corner.
The Students were on a roll and no wonder they had that touch of seigneur * running through their veins as they finished off the first half with a pushover converted try. 31-0 University had a commanding lead. But like life there are certainties- death taxes and Eastwood coming back.
This mini resurgence only took four minutes after the restart when a mid field flick pass by the Eastwood winger come breakaway Tuisese saw a winger streak downfield for a try.
But University said they’d better get more points and start the fun again. Attacking down the blind towards the grandstand again the ball was moved rapidly. Captain Jack McCalman was inside the Eastwood quarter and popped a ball to replacement prop Sione Harriss as he was brought down. Like a rampaging Northern Territory water buffalo Harriss powered through any defenders before him to dive over to score another seven pinter. This was University’s last score for the day. Eastwood continued scoring more points to trail 38-17 but it was too late after the initial University onslaught.
Following the game there was a presentation to two stalwarts of the club. Captain Jack McCalman and outside back the man, the legend, the Prince of Pace Henry Clunies-Ross.
Both men recorded 100 first grade games an incredible feat. Both Jack and Henry can look back and remember this moment of their lives. The game had an added significance for Henry as it will be his last game as he enters retirement. Thank you for your service Henry a stirling effort. May you enjoy your retirement sitting on the front porch in your rocking chair and getting a 10% discount on meals with your seniors card.
In reflection the team did not make the semi finals. But there are foundations that have been set which bodes well for the future.
Head coach Todd Loudon was in a positive frame of mind. “It was good to finish off. The first half was incredible but the second was slow. A nice game to recognize the achievements of Jack and Henry. “
Director of Coaching Nick Ryan was exuding the benefits of some returning elite players back in the ranks. Leafi’s size and Tom Lambert’s experience made a huge difference to us. It’s a good thing to have for next year.”
There are still semi finals for the lower grades so your University fix is still not over. Please refer to the club notices on social media for games and times.
*Seigneur- A feudal lord.