NSW Junior Rugby Union
Every now and then we get the chance to use rugby as a vehicle to make new friends and foster relations with our rugby brethren around the world. On Friday 12th July the NSWJRU / Shore Barbarians played a friendly fixture today against the touring King William's College, from the Isle of Man. The Barbarians were a mix of Shore School and club rugby players from clubs across Sydney and surrounding areas.
The games were hosted by Shore School at Northbridge and were played across and Opens and U15/U16 ages. And both teams managed to experience a bit of each others culture and meet new people thru rugby.
King William's is one of six schools across the Isle of Man which boast a total population of around 80,000 (less that attended State of Origin III). So they have a small pool from which to select from.
The two games were played in great spirit - the Opens fixture finishing with the Barbarians taking the game 31-19 in a well fought tussle. The U15/16 game saw the boys from the Isle of Man score within the first minute to take the early lead - but the Barbarians clicked into gear and went on a first half rampage after that. The second half was a much more even affair with both teams scoring 3 tries each - final score was in favour of the Barbarians 67-24.
The boys then had a presentation ceremony where they exchanged gifts before sitting down to share a meal. Nilanka Abbey (Hunters Hill) and Joshua Tamotu (Western Sydney Two Blues) were awarded best on ground by the opposition for each game.
A big thank you to Adam Stocks from the Shore School for their hospitality in hosting these fixtures. And to Stephen Jelly from King William's College. Another cracking day for junior rugby - thanks to all for being involved. Coaches Nick, Liam, Ben & Nick, our two young referees from Shore, jerseys from Northern Suburbs & NSW Juniors, and first aid from Ben. You all contributed to a fantastic day of rugby - Well done.
