Sydney University
Vs
West Harbour Pirates
21 March 2026
By Bruce China Lin
Sydney University’s recent run of victories ended last Saturday with a 14-14 draw against the West Harbour Pirates at St Luke’s Concord in an official trial.
The Pirates coached by former University coach Ben Rutherford succeeded in stifling the Students with committed defence. University were forced into errors and promising backline movements and forward drives frustratingly broke down at the last sequence.
Winger the machine Benjy Joseland was able to score one of his typical scorched earth tries down the flank for a half time score of 7-7.
The Students could not mount decent ball movement coupled with knock on’s and lost ball at lineouts. It was like watching the worst picture of all time *Plan 9 from Outer Space. You could not blame the small band of supporters to *absquatulate during the afternoon.
Fullback James McGreggor tried hard whilst loosehead prop Paddy Tagg was dominating his opponent but it was in vain as play unfortunately broke down or possession lost. Special mention to replacement five eighth Henry James who played an entire second grade game and came on as an early replacement during the first grade trial. A sterling effort and a very tired monkey!
Only in the last minute did University score an equalizing try and conversion otherwise the Pirates would have defeated the Students.
Not a great result but in hindsight a blessing to befall the Students now. No team is a pushover. The club is in rebuilding mode. Head coach John Manenti and his assistant’s will use this game as a benchmark on how not to play.
The rest of the club recorded blow out scores in all grades so the foundations are building nicely.
Next week an almighty test awaits the Students with a trial against last years grand finalists and recent powerhouse club Eastern Suburbs. Location will be advised.
*Plan 9 from Outer Space. – Worst film listed in Harry and Michael Mevded’s 1980 satirical book The Golden Turkey Awards that humourously honours the worst films, directors and performances in Hollywood history.
*Absquatulate – To flee or abruptly leave.