Marsfield experienced Byron Bays version of Splendour in the Grass last Saturday. On a playing surface resembling a giant mosh pit, Eastwood minimised mistakes and had some luck to defeat University 26-21.
University started off well with two quick converted tries through intense picking and driving in the first ten minutes. Eastwood with some big boppers throughout their fifteen scored a try under the posts after crashing through missed tackles in the midfield. But University’s tried and tested set piece once gain enabled them to score off a five-metre rolling maul late in the first half.
Eastwood continued attacking and forced University into errors. A five-metre lineout from the University textbook saw Eastwood score another try. Eastwood the Club which has a mutual cacodemonomania *towards University during their battles over the years on the cusp of halftime saw them continue pressing. A dart down the grandstand touchline saw them score a diving try into the Vimiera Road corner to trail 21-19. The second half would be an exercise on who could adapt to the conditions the best way.
Unfortunately, University’s disciplined clinical play went into cyberspace. Uncharacteristic mistakes coupled with luck enabled Eastwood to have the better of play. When Eastwood executed a set move with a diagonal kick the signs did not look for the Students. The kick was collected on the full by their winger who dashed down the touchline for a cheeky five points. The conversion saw the home side now lead 26-21.
University had the mission ahead of them. But whenever they were about to take advantage, a breakdown, knock on, turnover or obscure penalty halted their continuity. This pattern of play continued for the majority of the second half. You could see the frustration in University’s play as good field position was squandered by losing possession.
University had a try held up over the line and a five-metre lineout in the dying stages of the game to at least salvage a draw. However, Eastwood held firm to record a slim victory over University 26-21. A frustrating loss to say the least in abysmal playing conditions. All the players required a good hose down with a Karcher $150.99 at Bunnings to remove the layers of mud on their bodies and jerseys.
Next week University has their last home game of the season against the West Harbour Pirates.
*cacodemonomania – the pathological belief that one is inhabited by an evil spirit.
Scorecard
Tries: Sam Talakai, Charlie Hancock, Ciaran Loh
Conversions: Will Goddard (3)