Sydney University claimed a gritty 36-32 victory over Eastwood in Round 9 of the Shute Shield last weekend, in what proved to be one of the most exciting clashes of the season so far, played at the historic T.G Milner Field, the match had all the ingredients of a classic: fierce rivalry, momentum swings, and individual brilliance.
The Students burst out of the gates with purpose. Fullback James Kane showcased his vision early, delivering a perfectly placed cross-field kick to the winger Benjy Joseland, who finished in style for the opening try. Joseland, continuing his red-hot form, soon added a second- this time off the back of a strong line break by Eamon Doyle, Sydney Uni looked in control at 14-0 before Eastwood found their rhythm.
The hosts clawed their way back with two well-constructed tries. By halftime, the scores were locked at 17-all, setting the stage for a fierce second half.
Eastwood came out firing after the break, to take the lead to 24-17. But Sydney Uni didn’t panic. They rallied with composure, leaning on their set piece dominance and tight defensive patterns.
As the game wore on, the Students began to grind down Eastwood’s pack. Replacement forwards making valuable metres. With a slick backline movement put Uni back in front, before a powerful rolling maul led to a bonus-point try.
Eastwood refused to roll over, scoring a late try to bring the deficit back to four points, but it wasn’t enough. Sydney Uni held firm in the dying minutes, with strong breakdown work and a critical turnover sealing the result.
The 36-32 win not only earned the Student’s a valuable bonus points, but also reignited their push toward the top four. Head coach Todd Louden praised the team’s resilience, particularly in weathering Eastwood’s second-half surge.
“This was one of those games where character really counted”, Louden said post-match.” We were tested in every area, but the boys stuck to the game plan and earned a gusty win”.
Sydney University will now shift their focus to our home clash against West Harbour after the competition bye-week, with full confidence surging and their finals hopes still very much alive.
Join us this Saturday after our clash with West Harbour for Pasifika Night, a celebration of culture, connection and community at Sydney Uni Rugby: Pasifika Night
Find your tickets here: Tickets vs West Harbour
