The SURLFC First Grade side became the first team through to the NSWTSRL’s 2014 Grand Final with an outstanding win over 2014 minor premiers and current defending premiers Sydney Trains.
The Lions won 26 -20 and were led by front rowers Junior Tuapo, Okenelu Pasi, Sione Toli and current NSW Universities Representative Scott Bunch, who dominated in the middle of the field. Tries to Adam Sarkis, Kingston Nicholson and Jay Parker gave the Lions a handy 16 point lead at the start of the game. Building upon this strong foundation the team worked hard to keep the minor premiers at bay for the rest of the game.
Adam Sarkis returned to form with two impressive tries. He was well supported with great performances by Graham Harris, Kingston Nicholson and Adam Harber. The win secured a week off for the Lions ahead of the Grand Final. This will prove useful for recovery and preparation for the deciding match.
The team will take the field on Saturday 13 September at 3:00pm at Henson Park Marrickville and a celebration will follow after the match at the Grand Stand Bar at No 1 Oval.
The SURLFC Second Grade team has also made it through to the preliminary final. They defeated Sydney Trains in a nail biter which saw them use extra time to win 30 -20.
Trailing early in the game, the Lions clawed back with two tries to Angus Gaudry, but still faced a 10 point deficit at half time. The second half saw the team score back to back tries to tie the scores up at 20 all at fulltime.
Two missed field goal attempts meant the game went to extra time. The Lions then scored two tries to Robert Manchester and Kurt Lewis and came out victors. The Lions now travel to Canberra to play ANU in the knock out Final.
Success in that match will see both Lions teams make the 2014 NSWTSRL Grand Finals in what has been a remarkable come-back year for the Club.
Major Semi Final: First Grade
Sydney Uni Lions V Sydney Trains
Score 26 – 20
Scorers
Tries: Adam Sarkis 2, Jay Parker 2, Kingston Nicholson 1
Brendan Lee 3 goals
Players Player: Kingston Nicholson
Minor Semi Final: Second Grade
Sydney Uni Lions V Sydney Trains
Score 30 – 20
Scorers
Tries: Angus Gaudry 2, Vince Appleton, Robbie Manchester, Matt Makk and Kurt Lewis 1
Myles Fowler 3 goals
Players Player: Adam Irvine