PORT ADELAIDE PIRATES MAKE HISTORY WITH FIRST TITLE
September 24, 2002 - 10:30amStory by: ARU
History was made on Saturday, when the Port Adelaide Pirates, in their first Grand Final for 56 years, defeated the 2001 Premiers, Old Collegians by 27 points to 16 in the South Australian Rugby Grand Final, held at Bailey Reserve.
The Game started slowly, with Old Colls ball retention in the first half giving them the chance to get first points via flyhalf, Barney Bloxhem who kicked two penalties in the first 30 minutes.The Pirates then flicked on the "Go" switch with two scintillating runs from captain and flyhalf Aaron Mattin, and winger Tevita Raikiwasa setting up the first try for vice captain, Shane Elliot to score. From the kick off Raikiwasa weaved his magic again for a try to take the score, with the Aaron Mattin converstion to 14 to 6.
Before halftime, sustained pressure from the Old Colls forwards had lock Richard Czeglik score in the corner, with the Bloxham conversion making it 14- 13 at halftime.After halftime the game was in the Pirates keeping with ball retention and outstanding defence from backs James Lodge and James Toulope holding out the charges of backrower Kini Tavui and skipper Sean Gough.
Midway through the second half, a try from a 20 metre charge by Pirates flanker Bruce Todd sealed Old Colls' fate. With the score at 21-13 it looked inevitable that the Ken Milne Trophy was heading to the Western Suburbs of Adelaide for the first time in the club's history.A penalty goal from Bloxhem, took the score to 21 to 16 and gave Old Colls fresh hope, but this was short lived, as the Pirates stepped up the pace with crushing defence and more attacking raids from Raikwasa and Aaron Mattin.
Old Colls, unable to withstand the barrage of attack, conceded late penalties which Mattin converted to take the final score to 27 points to 16 .For the Pirates, there was a reason for a double celebration at Riverside Oval, after their Division 2 team defeated Old Colls 24 to 20 in a tough and tight Grand Final.
Old Colls salvaged something from the day with the 3rd Division teams going back to back with a 17-10 win over Onkapringa Red Devils. In the Ladies Final, Southern Suburbs Bulls made it two in a row, led by Kelly Madden and Kelly Sylvia, defeating Minor Premiers, Adelaide University 22-3.
21st September 2002, Grand Final
By James Diack
Port Adelaide defeated Old Colls in the hard fought division one 2002 grand final at Bailey Reserve on 21st September. Although Port had the more threatening attack for much of the game, and the final score of 27-16 suggests a comfortable margin, Colls trailed by only one point midway through the second half when Port converted a try, adding a penalty goal later. Old Collegians starting XV comprised Christian Tedge, Jeremy Thewlis, Jon Collins, Richard Czeglik, Bernard Hickey, Kini Tavui, Andrew Emanuel, Andrew Beare, Ben Suttell, Barney Bloxham (captain), Juan Aguiar, Shaun Gough, Nick Walsh, Dean Bradley and Phil Howell. Players listed as reserves included John Ovenell, Ben Hamer, Andrew Hickey, Andy McDougall, Stewart Douglas, Pauly Oxford, Leigh Marsland, David King, Tim Austin, Cameron McDonald and Don Brown.
Playing towards the northern end with a light wind advantage, Colls started impressively. We won a good share of ball, retained it in phase play and pegged Port inside their territory for much of the first 15 minutes. After missing his first shot at a penalty goal, Barney Bloxham kicked truly on two subsequent occasions to put us six points up. For the rest of the first half, the teams tussled in an evenly fought contest that turned out a high standard of rugby. We matched the heavy Port forwards in scrums; we won our lineout throws cleanly and our inside backs endeavoured to create attacking moves against the solid defence. Port did likewise; the difference being their success in breaking our line and scoring two tries to our one in this term. The first came after a scrum win, when their centres switched direction suddenly, and found a huge gap through which they dashed and scored between the goalposts. The second eventuated after we kicked away possession and their big fast men linked up and charged along the touchline before grounding the ball. Late in the term, we reduced the deficit to a point when we drove a maul forward and Richard Czeglik got the ball over the line near the corner for Barney to kick the conversion.
The struggle continued in the second half as we sought supremacy. Again we matched Port in set play, but were unable to cross the Port goal line for the rest of the game. When we carried the ball out wide, we ran out of space to make breaks or create overlaps because Port reacted quickly and tackled solidly. When we tried to charge through the middle or set up driving mauls, Port met us with stubborn resistance. Our own defence withstood a heavy battering from the opposition as they launched numerous forays into our territory. The earliest score in the second half was a penalty goal to Port, which we matched shortly afterwards. Port scored the only try of the second half. They secured the ball in a lineout 5 metres from our goal line and the player forced a gap to crash over for a well-scored try. Needing two tries to win the game, Colls tried desperately to break the sturdy Port defence, but the latter thwarted us repeatedly. Port kicked another penalty goal late in the game.
All participants of the First XV this year should be proud of getting the team into its second successive grand final. Everyone who played in the final deserves merit for endeavouring to overcome the strong Port combination, which was too good on the day.
14th September, 1sts vs Brighton, Semi-Final
By James Diack
After playing the almost entire game having to trade penalty goals with Brighton in the preliminary final at Bailey Reserve on 14th September, the Firsts snatched the lead for the first time in the game when the side constructed a do-or-die charge along the touchline that culminated in the only try of the match just before injury time. Colls won 19-15.
Both teams got off to a shaky start, having to contend with a stiff breeze, but Colls were the first to gain and hold territory for a substantial time. We had a hard fight to retain possession as Brighton defended robustly against our inside back combination, which tried valiantly to break through any perceived weak links. The match developed into a battle between the forwards to prevent turnovers in mauls and rucks. We missed two early shots at penalty goals, before we suffered a bout of fumbling that saw Brighton drive us back to our 22 and kick their first penalty goal. They kicked another shortly afterwards. Their third came after Barney Bloxham kicked the first of four for our side. The score at half time was 6-9 and by late in the second half it was 12-15.
Throughout the match, we kept Brighton's fast runners in check and didn't allow them into open space where they could link up and create the overlap out wide. We also ensured that there was no room for successful attacking rushes against us through the middle. For the second week in a row, our opposition failed to score a try; a feature that we should credit to Colls' alert, sturdy defence on the day. Our tackling was good; our follow-up support was quick to minimise Brighton's attempts at continuing their momentum and re-forming their attack. The opposition's defence proved to be efficient too; it put pressure on us to pass or kick hurriedly, just as we looked to have constructed try-scoring moves.
Our lineout and scrum work was good as usual and the forwards drove play ahead on many occasions. They all played well. Shaun Gough, Ben Suttell and Juan Aguiar were good in the back line.
At 12-15, and with time running out, Colls needed to build a match-winning move. The chance came from a rush that started from around the half way line and involved a number of players including substitute Cameron MacDonald, who led the charge. Juan Aguiar took the last pass and dodged through defenders for a 25-metre dash to score the vital try that Barney converted. The team is now set to play the grand final.
7th September, 1sts vs Souths
By James Diack
In the minor semi final at Bailey Reserve on 7th September, the Firsts overwhelmed the gritty Southern Suburbs side with a late try scoring spree to win 44-15. The result was a just reward for consistent courageous tackling by Colls that prevented Souths from scoring any tries. Souths' points came from penalty goals.
Colls attacked from the outset and, despite facing a blustery headwind, confined Souths to their territory for a long spell. After only seven minutes Juan Aguiar scored the first try when we shifted the ball quickly from a scrum win. Barney Bloxham converted easily before kicking two penalty goals later to increase the margin. We won lineouts efficiently with Bernard Hickey leaping high to secure the ball safely and we spoilt a number of Souths' throws. Our scrum work was good; we retained possession in the phase play and drove the action frontward by utilising forwards and backs in attacking moves. When Souths got more ball later in the first half we spoilt their attempted forays with stout defence. We infringed a number of times in rucks and mauls, which enabled Souths to kick three penalty goals to reduce our lead to four points at half time.
Souths assailed us inside our 22 just after half time and almost scored tries a couple of times, but we soon took play to the other end where we won a lineout to enable us to create a rush that culminated in Juan scoring his second try for Barney to convert. The opposition made desperate attempts to regroup their forces but faced solid tackling by our men, who gave Souths' inside backs little chance to build useful moves. Two more penalty goals gave them some encouragement, but in the last 20 minutes they wilted under the relentless barrage they confronted. Kini Tavui and Jon Collins led the way, with able support from Richard Czeglik, Christian Tedge and others. Barney Bloxham and Shaun Gough figured strongly in the back line, backed up well by Juan Aguiar and Nick Walsh.
We scored four times in this late period. A formidable run by Kini ended with his scoring a try. Stewart Douglas got the next one when Shaun made a brilliant break, passed three defenders and Juan continued the run before finding Stewart who touched down. Juan then scored his third try of the match. Nick scored the last try of the match. Barney kicked two more conversions. Although Souths pinned us down inside our 22 in the final moments, we had well and truly won the game.
31st August
1sts vs Port Adelaide, At BaileyBy James Diack
Brighton won the chase for the 2002 minor premiership, which meant the Firsts had to play the qualifying final against Port Adelaide on 31st August. This was a tough assignment for our men, who, after holding the opposition to a two point lead at half time, ran out of steam in the second term and failed to add to our score. The losing margin was 15 points.
Colls looked striking early in the match. We dominated the lineouts, performed well against the strong Port pack in the scrums and controlled the ball in the phase play. Our sharp attack did well to keep the Port defences on the alert inside their 22 at this stage, during which John Collins broke free into open space with a 15-metre run to touch down near the goal posts. Our inside backs, Ben Suttell, Barney Bloxham and Shaun Gough, created several other scoring chances, but strong pressure from Port forced errors and stopped us in our tracks, although Barney did kick a penalty goal.
As time wore on, Port gained a greater share of possession and forced us onto the defensive. Their big fast men linked up, launched a number of movements and found gaps out wide, which we had to plug at the last minute. Twice though, Port made an overlap and scored converted tries. Between these instances, Barney kicked another penalty goal, and another one later that tied the score. We took the lead again when we won a scrum near the Port 22-metre line and sent the ball to winger Juan Aguiar who beat 2 tackles and grounded just inside the corner post. We gave away a penalty just before halftime and Port got a converted try from the tap kick.
The second half provided a tense battle between the evenly matched sides. Kini Tavui was among the best of our forwards; he forced play ahead many times and also tackled effectively. John Collins and Andy Beare, among others, made solid contributions to keeping the Port attack at bay. Port scored one try during this half, but this was only after hammering at us for a lengthy spell inside our 22, when they finally forced the vital gap in our line after winning a scrum 5 metres from the goalposts. At other times during the term, we did well to cover gaps that appeared when Port ball carriers drew our defence one way and changed direction.
We continued to win a good share of the ball and produced some good spells of attacking play inside Port territory. However, although we strove hard, we didn't have enough sting or potency in our assault to make the breach necessary to score any more tries. Two penalty goals to Port late in the match took the final score to 34-19.
24th August 2002, 1sts vs Burnside
By James Diack
The Firsts played Burnside at Parkinson Reserve on 24th August, where we completed the minor round with five tries in a heartening 29-19 victory against a side desperate to keep it's chance of playing in the finals alive.
We attacked strongly early in the first half. The ball came quickly through the scrums; we won from our lineout throws easily and some of Burnside's too. Our inside backs had plenty of time to get the ball away into the open, and when the Burnside defence arrived, we held possession through the phases to keep moving forward. Barney Bloxham scored the first try and we soon had another on the board when Don Brown broke through the centres. Despite making many forays into the opposition's 22, we did not score again in this term; indeed Burnside pressed hard just before half, gained turnovers, turned defence into attack and were rewarded by scoring a try.
With only a 5-point advantage at half time, we started the second half with enthusiasm to increase our lead. In the forwards, John Collins, Ben Hamer, Bernard Hickey and Jeremy Thewlis worked hard to secure the ball and also defended vigorously. Don Brown was the best back; he used his speed well in attack and tackled ably. Barney Bloxham and Ben Suttell supported him with sound play. We produced a number of good movements, including one in which we swung the ball wide, forced it back inside and Don pounced on it before dashing past defenders to score another try, which Barney converted. Don scored his third try from an intercept that led to a 70-metre sprint to the line. Barney converted, giving us a 19-point lead. Burnside reduced this to 12 points when they scored their second try. Late in the match, substitute winger, Stewart Douglas, culminated a good combined rush with a fine try. The opposition still had a chance to salvage a bonus point, and kept trying to score tries, but they only managed to get one more before the end of the match.
10th August 2002, 1sts vs Southern Suburbs
By James Diack
The Firsts had their closest game of the season so far when they went down by one point against Southern Suburbs at Tregenza on 10th August. The sides generated some good rugby and scored four tries apiece in a tense match that saw mistakes made by one side quickly turned to the other's benefit.
Colls started well. We won adequate ball, retained it in sequent phases, tore holes in Souths' defence and soon had a 13-0 lead. After Juan Aguiar opened the scoring with a penalty goal, one of our penetrating rushes sent the ball out wide and then back inside for John Collins to dash through the remaining defenders and score the first try. Dean Bradley scored the second when the backs passed the ball out wide quickly. After this, Souths tightened their defences, turned over possession from us more frequently, gave their fast men more chances to run hard and gave good support to the ball carrier. Souths' first score was a penalty goal, and they followed this with a well-deserved converted try from one of their speedsters. They had to work hard for their next try, although the move began when we gave away easy possession just inside our half. Souths worked their way through phase play to the goal line where we held the ball up, but they won the ensuing scrum and grounded. The conversion gave them a two-point lead, which they extended by kicking a penalty goal later. It was level pegging at half time though, because Kini Tavui forced play over the line for a try after we had kept the ball alive during an advantage situation.
After a tap kick penalty early in the second half, Kini got the ball over the line again for his second try. Barney Bloxham followed Phil Howell's conversion with two field goals, which gave us a 31-18 lead. Our forwards played well throughout the match, won a good share of ball from set play and fought desperately to control the phases, but Souths had a slight advantage in being quicker to provide cover, form mauls and drive ahead. Kini Tavui made a good return to the team, supported well by John Collins and Andrew Beare. Barney Bloxham played a great game at five eighth. Phil Howell and Dean Bradley were other good players. A tap kick penalty sent the ball out wide for Souths who found plenty of space to score another converted try. Their resurgence continued when they won a chase for a loose ball and set up a rush that ended in yet one more converted try. We made frantic attempts to score once more in the closing stages, but Souths clung to their one point advantage.
Kini holding the ball
3rd August, 1sts 81 vs University 0
Photo: Lusia Rakiwasa
27th July 2002, 1sts vs Elizabeth
By James Diack
Colls hosted Elizabeth on 27th July and thrashed the visitors 97-12; scoring 15 tries to an early penalty try and an unconverted try late in the match. Barney Bloxham, Dean Bradley and Phil Howell each scored three tries, Juan Aguiar scored two, while Nick Walsh, John Ovenell, John Collins and Richard Czeglik scored one apiece. Juan kicked ten conversions and Barney got one.
Playing one of the two bottom teams, Colls could do little wrong against weak opposition. Winning possession and retaining it through the phases was easy, gaining turnovers from opponents posed few problems and all our players took any opportunity to run with ball in hand. John Collins was among the best of the forwards, ably supported by Christian Tedge, John Ovenell and Richard Czeglik. Barney Bloxham had an outstanding day in defence and attack. He featured in one of the scoring highlights of the first half when he took a pass while he was running at top pace and completed his forty metre dash with a well deserved try. Dean Bradley was another fast runner, well able to complete team-passing rushes by sprinting to the goal line. In the second half we saw some hard, fast running by Juan Aguiar and Phil Howell who scored five of our eight second-half tries. Heavy rain fell for most of this term, during which Colls displayed excellent ball-handling skills and sure-footedness. Elizabeths attack throughout the match was weak, so lets hope the remaining games this season provide tougher opposition as part of our preparation for the finals.
20th July, 1sts vs Port
By James Diack
The Firsts went to Port Adelaide Reserve on 20th July where the home team trounced them 18-72, a score in which the try tally was 2-12. With only five matches remaining before the finals, the team has much rebuilding to do if it is retain its place in the top three on the ladder.
Colls started badly when, about five minutes into the first half, and inside our 22, we kicked the ball directly to an opponent who scored an easy try. We kept Port at bay for a time, during which Juan Aguiar kicked 2 penalty goals, but the opposition scored four more easy tries to give them a comfortable 29-6 lead at half time. Colls did well in the lineouts and we won our share of set scrums. Port dominated the phase play however, won many turnovers and took advantage of a defence that was slow to form. We left gaping holes through which Port players strode easily.
Colls started the second half in earnest and soon scored a try near the corner for Juan to convert successfully. The resurgence was short lived as Port continued to impress with their determination and speed by scoring seven second half tries. True, Colls showed moments of brilliance in defence and attack, but the only bright spot in the remainder of the game was when Ben Suttell dodged defenders on the short and scored his try. With easy wins expected against Elizabeth and University in coming weeks, the other three games will test our resilience.
Black Falcons vs Darwin Mosquitoes, Friday 12th July
At Adelaide Oval
The Adelaide Falcons recorded one win in the Bundaberg Rum Australian Rugby Shield this season, with a comprehensive 39-0 drubbing of the Darwin Mosquitos. The match was played in fine spirit with both sides determined to put on an entertaining finale to their seasons, turning down kickable penalties in preference for kicking for touch and running the ball.
In their final match of the year both sides were also desperate to record their first win of the tournament, but right from the whistle the bounce of the ball, as well as pretty much everything else, went Adelaide's way.
Tries to pacey fullback Phil Howell from Old Collegians and elusive left winger Josh Satala gave Stephen Boyd's Falcons an early lead after 15 minutes but Darwin hit back bombarding the Falcon's line with attack after attack. The Falcons resolve held firm and after nearly 20 minutes of continuous pressure the Mosquitos had nothing to show for their efforts except a couple of missed opportunities.
The Falcons made the visitors pay for their failure to capitalise with flyhalf Barney Bloxham from Old Collegians picking up a neat try right on the bell. A penalty and a conversion to Port Adelaide's Aaron Mattin completed Adelaide's 20 point advantage at the break.
The second half continued very much as the first with Darwin again attacking for long periods but still unable to break the determined Falcons defence. On two occasions the Mozzies were held up over the line but it was the Falcon's open side flanker, Craig Emsley (AKA "Brains" - the guy with the blond dreads) who crossed for the next try, taking Adelaide to 25-0. Then late in the game the Falcons showed Darwin exactly how to convert opportunities, throwing the ball around and looking sharp on the outside, with Satala and Howell collecting their second tries. Mattin added the conversions.
For Adelaide, the win was some consolation for a season which started with high hopes but ended with just one victory from five attempts.
...[report from www.rugby.com.au]
Under 21s World Cup - Baby Boks V Junior Wallabies
South Africa recently won the IRB World Under-21 Championship, 24 to 21 in Johannesburg. Australia made a great come back from 24 to 9, scoring two tries in the second half. This left them only three points down with twelve minutes to go.
Brock James ran on at fly-half. He kicked three penalties and a conversion, but was unsuccessful in a further attempt at conversion and a later penalty which would have taken the game into extra-time. Nevertheless, it was an excellent second half by Australia, and very hard fought.
Scorers:
Australia - Tries: Anthony Mathison, Peter Hynes
Conversion: Brock James
Penalties: James (3).
South Africa - Tries: Ashwin Willemse, Clyde Rathbone. Conversion: Francois Swart
Penalties: Swart (4).
22nd June, 1sts vs Burnside
By James Diack
On an overcast drizzly afternoon the "Ones plus Twos' went to Parkinson Reserve on 22nd June where they outscored Burnside in the second half, yet went down 17-24 at the final whistle.
Players contested evenly in the early minutes while the sides tried to set their patterns of play. Colls scored the first try when we drove a maul forward and grounded, but shortly afterwards Burnside countered with a converted try after making the most of an advantage situation that enabled them to get the ball across the line. Colls struggled hard to contain their opponents for the rest of the first half and defended for long periods as Burnside won and retained possession from sequent phases. We won our share from set play but our attacking moves faced stout defence. Burnside scored two more easy tries to make the half time score 5-19.
They moved further ahead early in the second half with their last try of the match. Then our fortunes changed. It was a gradual process though, by dint of solid teamwork. We won a greater share of usable ball, retained it for long bursts and made headway into Burnside's 22 several times. We scored one try when a pack of players took the ball over the goal line. Towards the end of the term, our back line put together some good passing movements, one of which enabled us to make space and end the game with a converted try near the posts.
15th June, Collegians vs Brighton - 1st Grade
By James Diack
Playing the Brighton side at Tregenza on 15th June in the first of the mid-season games, our "Ones Plus Twos" combination went down 11-27 after failing to score in the second half. This round robin series between six teams involves squads of 25 interchangeable players, a format that gives people who have previously missed selection for the Firsts the chance to play at a higher level of competition.
We started well. We held territorial advantage for long periods in the first half, winning the ball consistently in the set play and using it to advantage through the phases. At times, Brighton put enough pressure on our inside backs to force the turnovers, but the opposition's attack broke down repeatedly when confronted by stout defence by our men. Good running by our outside backs took the ball out wide and allowed Juan Aguiar to stretch out and beat the last defender before touching down for our only try for the match. Brighton equalised when their outside backs got moving and made the overlap. Colls' only other scores were two penalty goals kicked by Juan. Shortly before half time, Brighton took a tap penalty kick that led to their winning a scrum feed and scoring their second try. The half time score was 11-10.
Brighton controlled the early stages of the second half. One of their big forwards broke through a tackle and gave another player space to move ahead and touch down. They scored another try some time later, while their last try came when they drove a maul forward and, in the ensuing play, the player grounded successfully. For Colls, the last 25 minutes saw opportunities wasted. We gained enough ball to give ourself the chance to reduce the margin, but Brighton's defence was good enough to stop us from building the momentum to force gaps and drive play forward into scoring positions. Ben Hamer, John Ovenell, Sandy Taylor and James Denley were among the best players.
8th June, Collegians 1sts vs Woodville 1sts
At Tregenza
By James Diack
After an evenly contested first half, the Firsts outclassed Woodville to score five tries to nil in the second term at Tregenza on 8th June. Heavy showers of rain made conditions difficult for both sides and hampered Colls' fast running rugby style.
Early in the game, Colls struggled to win and retain possession of the wet ball that moved slowly through the air when passed. Woodville adapted better to the conditions when their half and five eighth combination kept tight control by taking the ball back into the forwards to drive play ahead. This kept our players busy to regain possession and then kick long into open space or touch. Woodville took an early lead with a penalty goal. Whenever our back line did gather momentum, we clearly outpaced our opponents and this led to our first try when we swung the ball wide for Sandy Taylor to ground. We scored again when Ben Suttell used the short side option to send the scorer over near the corner post. Woodville hit back when the player broke our line and charged on to bring the score to 12-8.
Things went much better for Colls in the second half. We held possession well and made the opposition's defence look mediocre even before they lost a player on a red card penalty. Ben Hamer was the first try scorer when he beat a tackle and had a 30-metre dash for the goal line. Barney Bloxham's turn came when he recovered the loose ball inside our half and made a solo run before touching down. New full back, Andy MacDonald gathered good pace before passing to Juan Aguiar who stretched out on the left wing before grounding the ball. Ben Hamer scored his second try when he took a pass from Christian Tedge who made the vital break. Andy Beare scored the last try of the match and was unlucky enough to have a second one disallowed. The final score of 39-8 included two conversions kicked by Barney. Ben Hamer, one of this season's improving players, had a good day, as did Christian Tedge and Kini Tavui. Jeremy Thewlis was to the fore in the ball chase. On a day that provided difficult conditions for the backs, Barney Bloxham, Phil Howell and Shaun Gough made solid contributions.
1st June - Onkaparinga 2nds 12 v Old Collegians 2nds 24
The 2s have been playing a much improved game in recent weeks and must be acknowledged as a real chance for the premiership. A bet was made some weeks ago that the 2s wouldn't lose another game this year. Unfortunately for one of the gamblers (let's call him "Jamie"), that bet was lost by the narrow defeat to Brighton. However, the bet has been held over until the grand final. If the 2's win, the cash goes over the bar.
An Anonymous Match Report - Saturday 1st June, Onka's v OC
The seconds got their 2002 campaign back on track after an agonizing one point defeat the week previous. Onka's started brightly and scored after some shoddy defending let them in under the posts, their five-eighth showing that Onkaparingans can dodge players as readily as they do toothpaste. However, their lead did not last long after a backs' move put Roman clear and he scored in a Gavin Hastings like manner. After the break an intercept try from Jonty (very much reminiscent of Gregor Townsend's try against England at Twickenham in 1999) gave Old Colls the lead, before Onka's equalized - much to the delight of their corner of supporters. 'spiffing try, young chap" they were heard to remark.
With the score poised at 12-12 the game looked destined to be a draw until a tremendous try from Tim Williams won the game for Old Collegians. This try was a lot like Alan Tait's solo effort in 1999, also against England. To add insult to injury, Old Colls secured a bonus point with a try in the last second, James Denley putting a deft chip through for Roman to run on to and score. Someone on the touchline was overheard comparing it to Tony Stanger's try against England, which won the Grand Slam for Scotland in 1990.
1st June 2002, 1st Grade, Collegians vs Onkaparinga
At Onkaparinga
Onkaparinga 5 v Old Collegians 53
The ever diligent editor of the newsletter barrelled up to a number of first grade players at the bar after the game and demanded their summary of the game. Their input can be summarised as follows.
We played quite well. Onkaparinga kicked away a lot of possession. Man of the Match was Phil Howe. Phil probably scored a try. Juan scored a try. John Ovenell scored two tries, and generally had a great game. Shaun Gough scored at least one try and so did Barney. Ben Hamer finally scored a try after his first two attempts were disallowed. There may have been other try scorers, but no-one is sure. Everyone is, however, adamant that Sandy Taylor didn't score any tries. They were quite insistent about this.
John Collins insists that he scored a try, but no-one believes him. In his defence though, a member of the crowd was heard to remark that he was a Fast Little Ball of Beer. Onkaparinga's No. 7 was good. The Onkaparinga crowd do not like Juan Aguiar or Richard Czeglik. Apart from the obvious reasons, we're not sure why. They call Richard "Cheese Dick". We want to know how they know.
25th May 2002, Collegians vs Brighton, 1st Grade
At Tregenza
By James Diack
The top of the table clash between the Firsts and Brighton resulted in a twenty-point victory to the home team at Tregenza on 25th May. With four of our regular starters being unavailable, this great win was, in part, a tribute to the quality of our reserves who are going so well in division 2. Congratulations to all who contributed to the result.
In division 1, Colls and Brighton maintained a tight defensive line for most of the game. They made ball retention the keynote as they tried valiantly to find the slightest chink through which to drive play forward. A number of sequent phase wins went to four or more stages before turning over or ending in infringements. Colls tackled effectively, knowing that Brighton would take advantage of the slightest lapse in concentration. Juan Aguiar kicked a penalty goal to give us an early lead, to which Brighton responded by working play towards our 22 soon after the kick-off and holding it there for a spell until they equalised the score.
The differences that emerged between the sides as the first half wore on included our ability to dominate the lineouts; even to the extent of winning ball from the opposition's throws. Then we set up quick, well-timed fast back line rushes, one of which enabled Shaun Gough to make a big break that sent Juan Aguiar on his way to dodge the remaining defenders and score our first try. Juan culminated another great back line spin with a second try and converted it.
Juan extended our lead to 18-3 by kicking another penalty goal early in the second half; a lead that left Brighton having to score three times to win. They looked dangerous at times when they threw long passes to get the ball out wide and create space for themselves. Their only try for the match came from a second phase move after a lineout win. During the rush they switched direction, made the overlap and scored.
The quest for supremacy continued until late in the game. Colls defended doggedly against Brighton's attacking moves, while our own forays into their territory gradually wore them down. A long combined rush forward in which Shaun, Juan and substitute winger Stewart Douglas were the last three ball carriers, saw Stewart touch down. We were well in command at this stage and put the icing on the cake with our fourth try. A pack of players surrounded the ball in the top far corner, so I'm guessing a bit in reporting that John Denley had his hand on it. Barney Bloxham was among the best players and controlled the five eighth position well. Shaun Gough showed good skills in both defence and attack, while Juan Aguiar had a good day. All the forwards played well with James Bradley, John Collins and Bernard Hickey making big contributions.
18th May 2002, Collegians vs Burnside, 1st Grade
At Tregenza
By James Diack
The Firsts had an easy 58-3 win over Burnside at Tregenza on 18th May. Shaun Gough, Dean Bradley and Sandy Taylor contributed two tries apiece to our tally of ten for the match, while Barney Bloxham, Kini Tavui, Ben Suttell and Juan Aguiar added singles. Juan (2), Barney and Ben kicked conversions.
Cold windy conditions with a few spots of rain did not deter the sides from contesting the first half keenly. Burnside's forwards matched ours in mauls and rucks, winning and retaining possession well but their team, in general, lacked the pace and skills to penetrate our defence or get the ball into open space out wide. Colls' consistently solid defence eventually led to turnovers or Burnside infringements. When we won the ball from both set and phase play we made better use of well-timed passing rushes by forwards and backs alike. We also used the kick and chase ploy effectively.
Shaun scored the first try following a smartly executed back line movement and then Sandy touched down after a combined rush in which Richard Czeglik made the initial break. A tap kick penalty started a movement culminated by Dean's first try and he scored again after Shaun beat a couple of defenders. Half time score was 24-3 including a penalty goal to Burnside.
Barney scored his try early in the second half and then came a long period when nothing productive happened. Burnside were hampered by having incurred 3 red card penalties; yet they tightened their defence and forced us to make mistakes in attack when the expectation was that we would overwhelm them. Eventually, though, we lifted our standard of play and notched a further five tries.
Shaun scored the first of these after Juan made a fine break. Kini scored his try after eluding defenders. Ben, Sandy and Juan scored the three other tries. John Collins was among the best players who also included Richard Czeglik and Ben Hamer. Shaun Gough was the best back and Dean Bradley did well before being injured.
May 2002
2nd Grade
The 2nds are a very young side who are slowly building in confidence. They are coming to the realisation that premiership is a definite possibility. The quick back line will score points freely with the possession provided by the mobile pack. The game plan will develop with training attendance - the biggest hurdle so far. Each game forms team unity further, with the gutsy win against Southern Suburbs showing the value of commitment. It is a team regarded as the best 2nd grade for many years at Old Collegians.
... Tregenza Times, May 2002
Crocs
The Crocs' scores speak for themselves - they are easily the dominant team of the third grade this year. With a total of 362 points for and 38 against this year, if only the Crocs could pool their scores with the Two-Thirds and the Sister Frocs, all three teams would be undefeated!
... Tregenza Times, May 2002
4th May 2002, Collegians vs Souths, 1st Grade
At Bailey
By James Diack
Following the easy wins against Elizabeth and University in the preceding weeks, the Firsts faced stiffer opposition from Southern Suburbs in warm conditions at Bailey Reserve on 4th May.
Leading by one point at half time, we held Souths scoreless in the second half to end the match with a satisfying score of 30-15.
Both sides fought tensely from the start to win the ball and retain it by shifting it quickly while looking to rush it forward. Colls held territorial advantage for long spells in the early part of the first half, but had no luck in breaking through the defence. Souths had our attacking rushes well covered, which meant that we had to ensure that we won sequent phases. We also used the kick and chase ploy effectively.
Juan Aguiar provided our first points when he kicked two penalty goals. Souths had their best period in the middle of the first half. In one sequence of rushes they took play from their 22 into ours. A tap penalty kick started a set piece and they crashed over for a try, which they converted. We regained the lead when we secured the loose ball and Juan stepped past two defenders to score our first try. He converted. Another try to Souths and another penalty goal to each side made up the rest of the first half scores. (Juan again). Both packs won their scrum feeds consistently. We had a tough tussle in lineouts but still had more control than our opponents because we secured the ball more firmly and got it to the inside backs safely. Tom Secker, Andy Beare, John Collins, Christian Tedge and James Bradley had fine games and kept up with the movement of the ball well. Don Brown and Barney Bloxham controlled their positions with authority. Dean Bradley, with his safe ball handing and burst of speed, was another good player.
In the second half Juan kicked two more penalty goals. He followed this with a field goal when the ball hit the crossbar and lobbed over. Souths did not give up, but were under such enormous pressure from our defence that their hurried passes often went astray. The highlight of the day was Don Brown's magnificent 50-metre dash at top speed through the thick of Southern Suburbs' defence to score our second try late in the match.
27th April 2002, Collegians vs University, 1st Grade
At Tregenza
By James Diack
The Firsts brushed aside a weak team from Adelaide University at Tregenza on 27th April when we scored sixteen tries to end with a result of 98-5. In this game, Shaun Gough grounded four times, Phil Howell, Sandy Taylor and Ben Suttell three times each, while Richard Czeglik, Dean Bradley and Barney Bloxham once each. Barney kicked nine conversions.
The match was one sided from start to finish. Phil Howell scored our first try in the fifth minute and from then on the rest of the scores came at almost regular intervals. We gained our possession with ease and used our superior skills to initiate many attacking rushes that bewildered the inadequate opposition defence. The backs delighted spectators with fast running while looking for support from the next man and finding it. The forwards combined well, being able to win turnovers easily, drive forward through the loose defence and keep the ball in subsequent phases. University applied little pressure in attack, lacking the ball handling ability and speed to establish penetrative passing rushes through our defence, which was rock solid on the day save for one instance when University crashed through a maul and scored their only try. Ben Suttell had a superb game, Shaun Gough created many scoring opportunities for himself and others, Tom Secker was well to the fore and Richard Czeglik had another good day. Each member of the team, including the reserves, contributed to this huge win. At this stage of the season, we have established ourselves as strong contenders for the championship, along with Brighton, Port Adelaide and Southern Suburbs.
20th April 2002, Collegians vs Elizabeth, 1st Grade
At Womma
By James Diack
Playing at Elizabeth on 20th April, the Firsts included eleven tries in their 70-3 crushing of the home team. Don Brown headed the individual try tallies with 4, followed closely by Juan Aguiar with 3 and Andrew Beare with 2. Shaun Gough and Dean Bradley got 1 each, while Barney Bloxham kicked 6 conversions and a penalty goal.
Colls set the trend of play from the start. We scored our first try in the fourth minute when Don chased Barney's kick ahead and grounded near the corner. Don scored again after both teams had kicked penalty goals and then he and Barney repeated their earlier trick successfully. Meanwhile, Shaun had cruised through Elizabeth's lethargic defence for his try. Juan, Dean and Andrew scored our other first half tries; these scores resulted from well-executed rushes by team members completed by fast running by the scorers. Colls held possession for most of the match and made numerous incursions into the opposition's 22. Our forwards controlled the lineouts and dominated the phase play. True, Elizabeth won their scrum feeds, got some possession from our kicks ahead and picked up loose balls, but lacked the skills and speed to generate attacking moves against our solid, quick reacting defence that was hungry to gain turnovers. Andrew Beare had a good day, as did Richard Czeglik and Christian Tedge in a pack that performed well. Don Brown, Shaun Gough and Barney Bloxham were prominent in a back line that outclassed the opposition.
After leading 46-3 at half time, Colls scored only 4 tries in the second half. Juan stretched out and swerved past helpless defenders to touch down for two of them. Don got another, and then Beare culminated a powerful 20-metre dash with his second try. A feature of this term was the high number of penalties given away by Elizabeth, but their defence was tighter and made our attack look less potent than it had been during the first half.
The two thirds Crocs
Report by Kim EvansDespite the on-paper results, the Two Thirds (or the Crocs A, or the 4ths, or the Gators, or whatever else we're calling them this week) have been performing very well. When you consider the results - keep in mind they've their draw means they always play the club whose first and second grades have a bye.
There is hope that the draw may change (with a couple of teams possibly folding). Until then, they bravely face a hard task each week. For example, when they played Brighton on April 6, the 'third grade' Brighton team contained eight first grade players, five of whom played in the Black Falcons (the state team) last year! Make an effort to get out and see them play the Crocs on May 11!
Frocs, 6th April; 7 v University 24
Report by Kim Evans
The women's competition started later this year to give Burnside and Port Adelaide time to recruit. Burnside now has a team, and fingers are still being crossed for Port. However, in their first round Burnside forfeited against Souths. They had the numbers, but had not all paid their subs, so the club refused to let them play.
A different numbers problem was faced in the Uni v OC women's game. Uni turned up with 20 players, but their coach (Matt Nicholls) insisted that they could only play 10 a side. He was negotiated up to 12 a side, but our girls are despairing of ever playing 15s again. Uni dominated in open play on the day, but Colls won the vast majority of set pieces.
13th April 2002 Collegians vs Port Adelaide, 1st Grade, Tregenza
By James Diack
Playing at Tregenza on 13th April, the Firsts inflicted Port Adelaides first defeat for the season; a match in which victory for Colls was uncertain until we scored the last two of our tries late in the second half. We turned a four-point lead into a sixteen-point win.
Port started strongly, keeping control of the early phases with aggressive cohesive play from their ball hungry forwards. Colls maintained a tight defence during this early burst and restricted the oppositions score to a single penalty goal. Then it was our turn to invade enemy territory. Whereas Ports strengths lay in vigorous forward play and a strong fast outside centre, we had a wider range of options to invoke. Our forwards were likewise powerful, and our backs combined well, giving each other good, timely support. One back line passing rush sent Juan Aguiar on a 40-metre side stepping run through defenders to score our first try, which Barney Bloxham converted. Don Brown scored our next try after another good back line combination. Barney kicked a penalty goal that gave us a 15-3 lead.
There was a good battle throughout the match in the set scrums. Both sides won a couple against the head. Ports main joy in lineouts came from their throws towards the back of the line. In the main though, we dominated this aspect of the game having more variety, quicker throws and faster disposal. Both sides had problems controlling the ball when pressure was put on the inside backs. Colls countered this by kicking long into open space and chasing.
Port scored their first try from a well-executed combined team effort that carried the ball for more than 50 metres. Shortly before half time, our backs swung into action and left wing Juan scored his second try. Half time score was 20-10.
Juan extended our lead when he kicked a penalty goal early in the second half. A set move following a tap-kick penalty taken by Port just 10 metres from our line saw one of their men score an easy try. Another penalty goal kicked by Juan did not deter Port who hit back with their third try of the match, which reduced their deficit to four points. It was either sides game now with enough time left for further scores. Strong work by our forwards gained us good ball possession and our inside backs got away from a previously solid defence. One back line rush ended near the try line and the next play enabled us to cross for our fourth try. Another foray notched up our last try when John Collins grounded the ball for Barney to kick the conversion.
The final score was 38-22; a well deserved win against strong opposition. Tom Secker and John Collins were two of the best forwards and were prominent in the hunt for the ball. Juan Aguiar was the outstanding back, running and backing up as well as tackling. Ben Suttell was another good player under pressure.
6th April 2002 Collegians 1sts vs Woodville 1sts, at Gleneagles
By James Diack
The First XV played at Gleneagles Reserve on 6th April where they defeated Woodville 58-5 comfortably in a match that saw Colls score 8 tries. Weather conditions were cool and sunny, which encouraged Colls to stage a display of fast running rugby aided by safe handling and reliable support for the ball carrier.
Barney Bloxham kicked a penalty goal five minutes into the first half. Steady pressure by Colls enabled us to control consecutive phases and confine Woodville to their own territory. During this time, Shaun Gough culminated a good passing movement by teammates when he tore through a gap in the defence to score our first try, and Don Brown scored our second try after another fine rush in which players combined well. Barneys two conversions gave us an early 17-0 lead. Woodvilles only score came from a set move after winning a scrum 10 metres from our line. They had the extra man out wide and although he ran into trouble, they won the next phase to score their try.
Barneys second penalty goal came next. Shortly afterwards, we won a scrum and he had a long run that set Shaun Gough on his way to make the final break and score our third try. Dean Bradley scored our other first half try; again resulting from fine team play. Conversions by Barney made the half time score 34-5.
Collegians forwards played well throughout the game. The ball came slightly faster through the set scrums than in the previous two matches. We had a tentative start in lineout play, but settled down after a while and dominated this facet with quick throw-ins and won possession cleanly. Christian Tedge was among the best players in phase play; looking to secure the ball and drive forward as well as defending reliably. Bernard Hickey had another good game. Among the backs, Shaun Gough gave another polished display, and Don Brown was impressive in both attack and defence. Barney Bloxham was reliable as ever at five eighth.
When Woodville did have possession, we applied hard pressure and rarely allowed the ball to go out wide. They produced a few forward drives, but these ended with turnovers or infringements.
Shaun scored our first second half try. Don followed this up when he broke through after one of Barneys runs. Then it was Dean Bradleys turn for a try again following a strong back line rush. Another passage of strong team play enabled hooker John Collins to ground late in the game.
Another two conversions from Barney took the final score to 58-0.
30th March 2002: Easter
23rd March 2002, 1st vs Onkaparinga
By James Diack
The First XV ended a good day for the Club against Onkaparinga by scoring 8 tries in a 53-10 victory on 23rd March at Tregenza. Hot weather conditions prevailed for the second week straight, but the standard of play was good, with Colls dominating most aspects of play.
After Juan Aguiar kicked an early penalty goal, he helped set up our first try when he made a break and drew the play nicely for Dean Bradley to cross the line. Our lineout play was good throughout this match, giving us the opportunity to clear the ball away quickly on our throws. Shaun Gough appreciated this and created attacking moves. He scored our next try when he easily sidestepped through defenders. Richard Czeglik forced his way past opponents to add our third try. Juan scored our other first half try when he ran for the line after taking the ball from Shaun who had outmanoeuvred his opponents. Juan converted three of these first four tries.
Onkaparinga had several strong, forceful forwards who tried to drive their side into attack. Their scrum-work was sound enough to match ours. Their centres looked potentially dangerous at times, but our defence moved quickly out wide and effected some fine tackling. We gained many turnovers and then provided strong support to the ball carrier enabling us to retain possession for consecutive phases.
Onkaparinga scored an unconverted try soon after half time. Colls responded quickly. We soon put another try on the board and then went further ahead when Sandy Taylor completed a fast running back line rush with a great try. Although Onkas scored a second try, we were well in control for most of the games remaining time. Richard Czeglik was dominant in thrusting forward with the ball in phase play, while Tom Secker, James Bradley and Bernard Hickey were other good forwards in defence and attack. Shaun Gough was the outstanding playmaker, ably supported by Juan Aguiar and Dean Bradley. Brown was another good player. Shaun scored his second try late in the term. We scored our last try in the final few minutes.
Two more successful conversions by Juan in the second term made the final score 53-10.
16th March 2002, 1sts vs Brighton, By James Diack, 1st match of the season
What a challenge the First XV faced in the opening match of the 2002 season! The challenge consisted of a re-match of last years final against Brighton, playing at Brighton Oval, enduring 30 degrees (shade temperature) and melding several newcomers into the side. Although neither team succeeded in emulating the thrilling play of that final, they had an even tussle in the game played on 16th March, with Colls having every chance of winning until the last few minutes. Brightons winning margin was 7 points.
For most of the first half, Colls worked hard to gain the little usable possession that Brighton allowed us. We needed to get the ball away quickly from lineouts, scrums and mauls to set up our attacks, but the oppositions tight, quick response made it difficult for us to do that and also retain the ball. Brighton combined well with timely passing that kept our defence busy. Colls looked fine whenever we controlled consecutive phases in attack but we lacked the extra bit of backing up needed to complete the rushes with tries. Brighton missed an early shot at goal from a penalty but we were successful with one soon afterwards. Our opponents took the lead with a converted try when they found space to step through our defence. The half time score was 6-7 after we kicked our second penalty goal.
Five minutes into the second half, Brighton extended their lead to 8 points when they scored an easy try between the goalposts and converted. Clearly it was time for Colls to rally, retrieve the situation and prevent a possible rout. Taking a little while, Colls gradually worked play into Brightons territory and held them inside their 22 for long periods. True, Brighton gave away a number of penalties, including a couple of yellow card ones, but we played more vigorously now and used a variety of means to attack, such as driving mauls forward, forward rushes, back-line moves and at least one attempted pushover scrum. We narrowly missed scoring one try when we lost control of the ball in-goal. Our reward came finally when scrumhalf Brown broke through and grounded beside the corner flag. After Juan Aguiar kicked truly to gain the difficult conversion we were down by just one point. Sean Gough was one of our leading players. Others to perform well included Tom Secker, James Bradley, Bernard Hickey and Kini Tavui
Colls were unable to sustain the concentrated attack needed to score another try in the remaining time, during which both teams made mistakes under oppressive heat conditions. We gave away 3 notable penalties inside our own territory. Brighton found touch near our goal line with the first one. They kicked a goal with the second, and another from the third. This meant that we had to score twice to save the match.
The final score was 13-20.
