VRU 2014
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en_force_er
Geoff Shaw (53)
Anyone here following the schools league?
elementfreak
Trevor Allan (34)
ENDEAVOUR HILLS 22 def by HARLEQUIN 50: Frog Hollow Reserve, David Collins Dve, Endeavour Hills
Harlequin has returned to the winner's list with a comfortable 22-50 win over a struggling Endeavour Hills side. Quins, who last week were overrun by Box Hill, returned to form with a fierce attack against 'Hills. Lloyd Johansson was once again on hand with fifteen points to his name, while Rebel Alex Rokobaro continues to improve each week to the pleasure of Head Coach Craig McGrath.
"The (strong) game was required from the Club after last week. Over all it was a good team performance," McGrath says. "Alex Rokobaro played well again and is showing some real class in attack. He's bringing a lot of energy and enthusiasm to his game and the team."
For Endeavour Hills' Head Coach John Eden it was disappointment again, but 'Patches' is now setting the bar high for 'Hills for the rest of the season with matches against Power House and Footscray in the next three weeks; two sides who have also found themselves floating near the bottom of the ladder.
"We just can't get it right," explains Eden. "We got beaten but a better team on the day. Too many drop balls, squeezing the fifty-fifty passes and decision making continually costing us points.
"We did have a couple of good players though. Eighteen year old flyhalf Suaesi Iousua and flanker Reuben Rolleston didn't stop trying all day. Over all it was a frustrating day in the office, but our goal now is to win two of our next three games."
Endeavour Hills 22 Tries: Junior Paila, Reni Molimau. Conversions: Suaesi Fousua.
Harlequin 50 Tries: Josh Meads (2), Dale Stevenson, Olajuwon Noa, Craig McGrath, Lloyd Johansson, Alex Rokobaro, Rian Olivier. Conversions: Lloyd Johansson (5). Penalties: nil.
POWER HOUSE 10 def by MELBOURNE 43: Albert Park, Lakeside Dve, Albert Park
Power House have fallen victims to a second half decimation against the Melbourne Unicorns, going down by 33 points after trailing 12-10 five minutes into the second half.
Power House, who recorded their first win of the season last week over Southern Districts, kept in touch with the third placed Unicorns for the first half, however were unable to hold back a rampant 40 minutes of attack from a side boosted by Rebels Jordy Reid and Telusa Veainu. Chris Slade was again prominent for the Unicorns, with a firing backline devastating the home side.
Unicorns' Director of Rugby Ellis Meachen was impressed with their overall performance, particularly with the second half blow out.
"It was a solid final 40 minutes from the side, and we were able to run out with a good win," Meachen says. "Dan Squire was controlling the lineouts and there was solid support around the field from Jordy and Dan Corcoran. Our ball running prop Ata Manu dominated as our forwards took control.
"Albert Aiolupotea created space which Telusa used effectively to punish indecision from Power House. We've still got eight players to return from injury, so we're really looking forward to the bye week to regroup and recover."
Power House 10 Tries: Adam Millgate. Conversions: Jordan Schmidt. Penalties: Jordan Schmidt.
Melbourne 43 Tries: Telusa Veainu (2), Atta Manu, Jeremy Focas-Turk, Chris Slade, Albert Aiolupotea, Jerson Wihihera. Conversions: Chris Slade (4). Penalties: nil.
SOUTHERN DISTRICTS 20 def by MOORABBIN 27: Riviera Park, Eel Race Rd, Seaford
Moorabbin remain undefeated in 2014 despite being challenged by Southern Districts, recording a 20-27 point victory over the Pirates in Seaford.
Pirates' Head Coach Ross Sanders was happy with his side's performance against a quality side, particularly after a poor showing against cellar dwellers Power House in Round Six.
"It was a much improved and more committed performance from the Pirates this week," Ross said. "We competed well in all facets of the game and felt that we were still in with a chance right to the very end.
"In the forwards Junior Tuala was once again our best with a high work rate and powerful running, and he was supported well by the ever present Jarrod Ebhart. Tom Kei was solid in the midfield, whilst Heine McFarland was a constant threat to the Moorabbin defence with his acceleration and elusive running."
Rams' Head Coach Ben Perenise was pleased with his sides' efforts, despite keeping the Pirates in the game as two players were sin binned in the second half.
"It's always tough to play away and Souths is no exception," Perenise says. "We didn't have good memories from our last visit to Seaford when we had it dealt to us, however this time we were able to walk away and put those memories to bed.
"We made it harder for ourselves with two yellow cards and basic errors keeping Souths in the game. One of our best players was Lualua Vailoaloa who normally plays halfback, but with a couple of guys unavailable found himself at open side. He didn't look out of place at all as he chased and fetched well at the break down.
"Our young lock Alex Fowles had another strong game, scoring his first try and coming close a couple of times. Simon Brown continued his good form with another consistent game."
Southern Districts 20 Not provided
Moorabbin 27 Tries: Alex Fowles, Lualua Vailoaloa, Machon Samu, Brendan Todd. Conversions: Patolo Toeta (2). Penalties: Patolo Toeta.
FOOTSCRAY 10 def by MELBOURNE UNI 20: Henry Turner South Reserve, Cnr Farnsworth Ave & Myers Rd, Footscray
Melbourne University have recorded their second win in a row, with a ten point victory over a Footscray side who have struggled to find form this season.
The Doggies posed a fierce challenge in the first half, flooding the breakdown and testing the bigger Students' scrum, however the Students were able to hold on for a valuable win.
Footscray Head Coach Nic Henderson was frustrated with his side's performance, with opportunities going begging throughout the afternoon.
"We created enough opportunities to win the game but failed to take them time and time again," Henderson says. "Uni's defence was outstanding when reduced to 14 men, and was the turning point in the match; they thrived off it and found much needed energy to close the game out.
"Timmy Diack and Matt Komiti were our best players. Timmy worked tirelessly all day and got through a mountain of work, all at the very high standards he sets. Matt was a late call up from the seconds but looked right at home on the wing. He did a great job in defence and worked hard to create opportunities in attack."
For University Head Coach Jason Jones, it was a case of holding on against the passionate Doggies, and coming home with a strong second half.
"With Footscray over-committing at the breakdown, we made a concerted effort in the second half to shift the ball away from contact and use our young sharp backs," Jones says. "It was a tough day of Rugby and full credit goes to the Doggies who played with passion. Our defence was improved, and if we can continue to build on that and it clicks with our attack there may be some light ahead.
"Sam Richards was appointed captain this week and played an excellent game. He thrived in the physical battle and his pilfering at the breakdown was a highlight. He only played eight minutes last week but with a few injuries he got the chance to start and really stepped up.
"Steve Fualau had his best performance for us this year; his leadership and physical presence has been huge for our Club. He was consistent all day, particularly in defence when we were down to fourteen men early in the second half. Sam Jeffries again played the full 80 minutes, making it three weeks in a row since his return from injury. His lineouts were exceptional but it was his work rate in defence was the most pleasing aspect of his play."
Footscray 10 Tries: Asema Williams. Conversions: Shane Imo. Penalties: Shane Imo
Melbourne Uni 20 Tries: Ione Sefo, George Stewart. Conversions: James Nettleton. Penalties: Jarome Halo
Harlequin has returned to the winner's list with a comfortable 22-50 win over a struggling Endeavour Hills side. Quins, who last week were overrun by Box Hill, returned to form with a fierce attack against 'Hills. Lloyd Johansson was once again on hand with fifteen points to his name, while Rebel Alex Rokobaro continues to improve each week to the pleasure of Head Coach Craig McGrath.
"The (strong) game was required from the Club after last week. Over all it was a good team performance," McGrath says. "Alex Rokobaro played well again and is showing some real class in attack. He's bringing a lot of energy and enthusiasm to his game and the team."
For Endeavour Hills' Head Coach John Eden it was disappointment again, but 'Patches' is now setting the bar high for 'Hills for the rest of the season with matches against Power House and Footscray in the next three weeks; two sides who have also found themselves floating near the bottom of the ladder.
"We just can't get it right," explains Eden. "We got beaten but a better team on the day. Too many drop balls, squeezing the fifty-fifty passes and decision making continually costing us points.
"We did have a couple of good players though. Eighteen year old flyhalf Suaesi Iousua and flanker Reuben Rolleston didn't stop trying all day. Over all it was a frustrating day in the office, but our goal now is to win two of our next three games."
Endeavour Hills 22 Tries: Junior Paila, Reni Molimau. Conversions: Suaesi Fousua.
Harlequin 50 Tries: Josh Meads (2), Dale Stevenson, Olajuwon Noa, Craig McGrath, Lloyd Johansson, Alex Rokobaro, Rian Olivier. Conversions: Lloyd Johansson (5). Penalties: nil.
POWER HOUSE 10 def by MELBOURNE 43: Albert Park, Lakeside Dve, Albert Park
Power House have fallen victims to a second half decimation against the Melbourne Unicorns, going down by 33 points after trailing 12-10 five minutes into the second half.
Power House, who recorded their first win of the season last week over Southern Districts, kept in touch with the third placed Unicorns for the first half, however were unable to hold back a rampant 40 minutes of attack from a side boosted by Rebels Jordy Reid and Telusa Veainu. Chris Slade was again prominent for the Unicorns, with a firing backline devastating the home side.
Unicorns' Director of Rugby Ellis Meachen was impressed with their overall performance, particularly with the second half blow out.
"It was a solid final 40 minutes from the side, and we were able to run out with a good win," Meachen says. "Dan Squire was controlling the lineouts and there was solid support around the field from Jordy and Dan Corcoran. Our ball running prop Ata Manu dominated as our forwards took control.
"Albert Aiolupotea created space which Telusa used effectively to punish indecision from Power House. We've still got eight players to return from injury, so we're really looking forward to the bye week to regroup and recover."
Power House 10 Tries: Adam Millgate. Conversions: Jordan Schmidt. Penalties: Jordan Schmidt.
Melbourne 43 Tries: Telusa Veainu (2), Atta Manu, Jeremy Focas-Turk, Chris Slade, Albert Aiolupotea, Jerson Wihihera. Conversions: Chris Slade (4). Penalties: nil.
SOUTHERN DISTRICTS 20 def by MOORABBIN 27: Riviera Park, Eel Race Rd, Seaford
Moorabbin remain undefeated in 2014 despite being challenged by Southern Districts, recording a 20-27 point victory over the Pirates in Seaford.
Pirates' Head Coach Ross Sanders was happy with his side's performance against a quality side, particularly after a poor showing against cellar dwellers Power House in Round Six.
"It was a much improved and more committed performance from the Pirates this week," Ross said. "We competed well in all facets of the game and felt that we were still in with a chance right to the very end.
"In the forwards Junior Tuala was once again our best with a high work rate and powerful running, and he was supported well by the ever present Jarrod Ebhart. Tom Kei was solid in the midfield, whilst Heine McFarland was a constant threat to the Moorabbin defence with his acceleration and elusive running."
Rams' Head Coach Ben Perenise was pleased with his sides' efforts, despite keeping the Pirates in the game as two players were sin binned in the second half.
"It's always tough to play away and Souths is no exception," Perenise says. "We didn't have good memories from our last visit to Seaford when we had it dealt to us, however this time we were able to walk away and put those memories to bed.
"We made it harder for ourselves with two yellow cards and basic errors keeping Souths in the game. One of our best players was Lualua Vailoaloa who normally plays halfback, but with a couple of guys unavailable found himself at open side. He didn't look out of place at all as he chased and fetched well at the break down.
"Our young lock Alex Fowles had another strong game, scoring his first try and coming close a couple of times. Simon Brown continued his good form with another consistent game."
Southern Districts 20 Not provided
Moorabbin 27 Tries: Alex Fowles, Lualua Vailoaloa, Machon Samu, Brendan Todd. Conversions: Patolo Toeta (2). Penalties: Patolo Toeta.
FOOTSCRAY 10 def by MELBOURNE UNI 20: Henry Turner South Reserve, Cnr Farnsworth Ave & Myers Rd, Footscray
Melbourne University have recorded their second win in a row, with a ten point victory over a Footscray side who have struggled to find form this season.
The Doggies posed a fierce challenge in the first half, flooding the breakdown and testing the bigger Students' scrum, however the Students were able to hold on for a valuable win.
Footscray Head Coach Nic Henderson was frustrated with his side's performance, with opportunities going begging throughout the afternoon.
"We created enough opportunities to win the game but failed to take them time and time again," Henderson says. "Uni's defence was outstanding when reduced to 14 men, and was the turning point in the match; they thrived off it and found much needed energy to close the game out.
"Timmy Diack and Matt Komiti were our best players. Timmy worked tirelessly all day and got through a mountain of work, all at the very high standards he sets. Matt was a late call up from the seconds but looked right at home on the wing. He did a great job in defence and worked hard to create opportunities in attack."
For University Head Coach Jason Jones, it was a case of holding on against the passionate Doggies, and coming home with a strong second half.
"With Footscray over-committing at the breakdown, we made a concerted effort in the second half to shift the ball away from contact and use our young sharp backs," Jones says. "It was a tough day of Rugby and full credit goes to the Doggies who played with passion. Our defence was improved, and if we can continue to build on that and it clicks with our attack there may be some light ahead.
"Sam Richards was appointed captain this week and played an excellent game. He thrived in the physical battle and his pilfering at the breakdown was a highlight. He only played eight minutes last week but with a few injuries he got the chance to start and really stepped up.
"Steve Fualau had his best performance for us this year; his leadership and physical presence has been huge for our Club. He was consistent all day, particularly in defence when we were down to fourteen men early in the second half. Sam Jeffries again played the full 80 minutes, making it three weeks in a row since his return from injury. His lineouts were exceptional but it was his work rate in defence was the most pleasing aspect of his play."
Footscray 10 Tries: Asema Williams. Conversions: Shane Imo. Penalties: Shane Imo
Melbourne Uni 20 Tries: Ione Sefo, George Stewart. Conversions: James Nettleton. Penalties: Jarome Halo
pablo
Darby Loudon (17)
Yes mate, well bits and pieces....St Kevins clearly the team to beat, big drops in talent from there.
en_force_er
Geoff Shaw (53)
pablo
Darby Loudon (17)
Would have to think that the top 4 will be STK, Xavier, Melb Grammar and Scotch. Would be interesting to see how they go against the under 18 club sides....
That really hasn't changed since my playing days at school. My old school did manage to win a premiership, but then scotch stole the coach and Rugby went all downhill from there.
I reckon the club standard was better at the under 18 level, but this was mid 90's . Don't know what it's like right now./ Would always love to think the clubbies could do it again.
elementfreak
Trevor Allan (34)
Everything you need to know ahead of Round 8 of the Dewar Shield
Moorabbin (most recent result first) (WWDWW) v Power House (LWLBL):
Rebels prop Max Lahiff has been named to make his Dewar Shield debut at home for the Rams this week, against a 'House side without any Rebels playing. Moorabbin remain unbeaten at the top of the table, and boast a hugely impressive seventeen different try scorers. It's a daunting task for a Power House team who have struggled this season, and they'll need to be at their best when they travel to #ramcity.
Moorabbin players to watch:
"After a delayed start to the competition and a couple of starts at fullback, Neli Sasulu moves into his familiar position of flyhalf. It is an important game for us so I'm looking to take advantage of his experience. He has good game sense and knows how to give direction to the forwards. He demands performance which comes naturally to him in his day job as a personal trainer, but also from years of playing top level Rugby.
"Not much of a talker, hooker Ano Kapeli tends to let his actions do most of it for him. Since joining the Club this year, Ano has brought stability and much needed aggression to our set pieces; so much so that it's rubbed off onto his peers. His work rate around the field has probably gone unnoticed but I don't think he's thought much of it; I think he just enjoys hitting people." (Ben Perenise, Moorabbin Head Coach)
Power House players to watch:
Not provided
Box Hill (BWDWW) v Endeavour Hills (LLLLB):
Rebel flyhalf Angus Roberts returns to the Broncos for his second Dewar Shield appearance of the season, while Rebels' Tongan international Eddie Aholelei again suits up for a Hills side whose focus will be on restricting the Box Hill attack. They average a whopping 38 points a game, led by a combined 23 tries scored by gun trio Savenaca Waqalutuduadua (9), Sefanaia Naivalu (8) and Filipe Koroibola (6).
Box Hill players to watch:
"George Manuoketea is a talented front rower who has the ability to play at either prop or hooker. He has been making great impact off the bench this season, and this week deserves his starting spot as he looks to continue this great form. George has worked hard at his fitness in the off season and we will be looking for him to work hard off the ball.
"Bill Seveti is a player who has struggled with injury this season but will be someone to look out for as he starts to show the form that has made him a superstar on the Rugby Sevens circuit. He possesses all the skills, but will want to show how he can use them in the 15-a-side game. Bill will be looking to cement a starting spot in the Box Hill backline and will be motivated to impress." (Andrew Slyfield, Box Hill Head Coach)
Endeavour Hills players to watch:
"George Maatafa will be coming up from the reserves and will playing 7. He has had an outstanding season with the reserves, and deserves the chance to test himself at a higher level.
"Junior Paila will be playing at12 after playing scrumhalf all year. He has good vision and will give us great options in attack through the midfield. We have shuffled the back line a bit, but as we are looking for the best attacking winning option I think Junior will give us more in the midfield." (John Eden, Endeavour Hills' Head Coach)
Southern Districts (LLWLL) v Footscray (LBWLL):
Lopeti Timani returns from injury to suit up for Footscray in Seaford against the Pirates. Both sides will see this as a great opportunity to secure their second victory of the season. They've both a percentage of 85%, indicating that they have suffered some close losses; indeed, despite sitting second from bottom, Footscray have the thirtd best defensive record in the competition, while Southern Districts have pushed the likes of Moorabbin and Melbourne all the way this year. A beauty of a game here; match of the round stuff, even.
Southern Districts players to watch:
"Heine McFarland arrived at Southern Districts late 2013 straight from winning a National Championship with San Francisco in the USA Elite Cup Competition. The American Samoan worked as a cultural performer in the states before arriving in Melbourne and there is no doubt that he has the ability to entertain. The utility back has great pace and thrives on broken play. His most outstanding attribute however is his ability to hold his feet and sustain forward momentum in contact. Heine's also strong in defence, having shut down many attacking raids with solid ball and all tackles.
"Openside flanker Bradley Nicholson was amongst our best in the opening three rounds, and returns this week having missed a month due to illness and travel. He's a robust, high work rate flanker who doesn't mind putting his head over the ball and competing for possession at the tackle and breakdown. Brad will provide plenty of energy and enthusiasm in both attack and defence; his battle with Footscray #7 Tim Diack will be interesting and this contest alone will influence the outcome." (Ross Sanders, Southern Districts Head Coach)
Footscray players to watch:
"Josh Ngauano has had a great year so far at hooker. He is finding consistency in his throwing, and making a real impact with his scrummaging. Josh needs to continue working on his repeat efforts during the game, but has been a rock in our forward pack.
"Asema Williams has found some much needed fitness after a slow start to the year. He has begun to string together solid performances week in week out, and will look to use his wide running game to effect." (Nic Henderson, Head Coach Footscray)
Melbourne Uni (WWLLW) v Harlequin (WLBWL)
Good mates Sam Jeffries (Melbourne Uni) and Alex Rokobaro (Harlequin) come up against each other here in a match which will show how far Uni have come since finishing second bottom last year. Just one place separates these teams on the table, with both boasting a 4-2 record, however the percentage difference between the two is over 50%! With the exception of a first round win over Box Hill, Uni have come short when facing top teams and Quins are just that; the 2013 champions are yet to quite replicate that form, however there is no doubt that they are capable. They found their attacking mojo last week against Endeavour Hills, while Uni's defence was stoic against Footscray; which of those efforts is replicated this week will decide this match.
Melbourne Uni players to watch:
"For Uni, this is where the rubber hits the road; five teams have made a break on the Dewar shield table and if the status quo remains for the next month or so then one team will have to drop out of contention for finals. Uni will feel the loss of Steve Fualau, but there have been enough positive signs over the first seven rounds to indicate that this could be a tighter match than people think.
"Gab Navuni is the 'father figure' of a very young Uni side. Gab joined the Club this season and has been an inspiration to all. He is a man of few words, but his respect amongst the playing group is undeniable; when he does talk, the young Uni team listens to every word. Gab has been crucial to us through his line out calling and hard as nails defence around the ruck.
"Isea Halo has been a brilliant addition to the Club's roster this year. 'Ice' has cheeky sense of humour, which belies an ultra competitive young man who throws his lightweight frame into the contact zone. He possesses incredibly fast feet and a crazy step, and he finally understands when to shift the ball to his back line or take the space and have a crack himself." (Jason Jones, Melbourne Uni Head Coach)
Harlequin players to watch:
"Josh Meads is the 'Mr. Versatile' of our backline; he has the ability to cover every position and cover them well. He's been on the wing this year and on Saturday showed his ability as a finisher scoring 2 tries.
"Zac Dixon was one of the unsung heroes of our win last week. He was back to his workmanlike best and every team needs guys like him in it; a real grafter who puts the team before himself."
Moorabbin (most recent result first) (WWDWW) v Power House (LWLBL):
Rebels prop Max Lahiff has been named to make his Dewar Shield debut at home for the Rams this week, against a 'House side without any Rebels playing. Moorabbin remain unbeaten at the top of the table, and boast a hugely impressive seventeen different try scorers. It's a daunting task for a Power House team who have struggled this season, and they'll need to be at their best when they travel to #ramcity.
Moorabbin players to watch:
"After a delayed start to the competition and a couple of starts at fullback, Neli Sasulu moves into his familiar position of flyhalf. It is an important game for us so I'm looking to take advantage of his experience. He has good game sense and knows how to give direction to the forwards. He demands performance which comes naturally to him in his day job as a personal trainer, but also from years of playing top level Rugby.
"Not much of a talker, hooker Ano Kapeli tends to let his actions do most of it for him. Since joining the Club this year, Ano has brought stability and much needed aggression to our set pieces; so much so that it's rubbed off onto his peers. His work rate around the field has probably gone unnoticed but I don't think he's thought much of it; I think he just enjoys hitting people." (Ben Perenise, Moorabbin Head Coach)
Power House players to watch:
Not provided
Box Hill (BWDWW) v Endeavour Hills (LLLLB):
Rebel flyhalf Angus Roberts returns to the Broncos for his second Dewar Shield appearance of the season, while Rebels' Tongan international Eddie Aholelei again suits up for a Hills side whose focus will be on restricting the Box Hill attack. They average a whopping 38 points a game, led by a combined 23 tries scored by gun trio Savenaca Waqalutuduadua (9), Sefanaia Naivalu (8) and Filipe Koroibola (6).
Box Hill players to watch:
"George Manuoketea is a talented front rower who has the ability to play at either prop or hooker. He has been making great impact off the bench this season, and this week deserves his starting spot as he looks to continue this great form. George has worked hard at his fitness in the off season and we will be looking for him to work hard off the ball.
"Bill Seveti is a player who has struggled with injury this season but will be someone to look out for as he starts to show the form that has made him a superstar on the Rugby Sevens circuit. He possesses all the skills, but will want to show how he can use them in the 15-a-side game. Bill will be looking to cement a starting spot in the Box Hill backline and will be motivated to impress." (Andrew Slyfield, Box Hill Head Coach)
Endeavour Hills players to watch:
"George Maatafa will be coming up from the reserves and will playing 7. He has had an outstanding season with the reserves, and deserves the chance to test himself at a higher level.
"Junior Paila will be playing at12 after playing scrumhalf all year. He has good vision and will give us great options in attack through the midfield. We have shuffled the back line a bit, but as we are looking for the best attacking winning option I think Junior will give us more in the midfield." (John Eden, Endeavour Hills' Head Coach)
Southern Districts (LLWLL) v Footscray (LBWLL):
Lopeti Timani returns from injury to suit up for Footscray in Seaford against the Pirates. Both sides will see this as a great opportunity to secure their second victory of the season. They've both a percentage of 85%, indicating that they have suffered some close losses; indeed, despite sitting second from bottom, Footscray have the thirtd best defensive record in the competition, while Southern Districts have pushed the likes of Moorabbin and Melbourne all the way this year. A beauty of a game here; match of the round stuff, even.
Southern Districts players to watch:
"Heine McFarland arrived at Southern Districts late 2013 straight from winning a National Championship with San Francisco in the USA Elite Cup Competition. The American Samoan worked as a cultural performer in the states before arriving in Melbourne and there is no doubt that he has the ability to entertain. The utility back has great pace and thrives on broken play. His most outstanding attribute however is his ability to hold his feet and sustain forward momentum in contact. Heine's also strong in defence, having shut down many attacking raids with solid ball and all tackles.
"Openside flanker Bradley Nicholson was amongst our best in the opening three rounds, and returns this week having missed a month due to illness and travel. He's a robust, high work rate flanker who doesn't mind putting his head over the ball and competing for possession at the tackle and breakdown. Brad will provide plenty of energy and enthusiasm in both attack and defence; his battle with Footscray #7 Tim Diack will be interesting and this contest alone will influence the outcome." (Ross Sanders, Southern Districts Head Coach)
Footscray players to watch:
"Josh Ngauano has had a great year so far at hooker. He is finding consistency in his throwing, and making a real impact with his scrummaging. Josh needs to continue working on his repeat efforts during the game, but has been a rock in our forward pack.
"Asema Williams has found some much needed fitness after a slow start to the year. He has begun to string together solid performances week in week out, and will look to use his wide running game to effect." (Nic Henderson, Head Coach Footscray)
Melbourne Uni (WWLLW) v Harlequin (WLBWL)
Good mates Sam Jeffries (Melbourne Uni) and Alex Rokobaro (Harlequin) come up against each other here in a match which will show how far Uni have come since finishing second bottom last year. Just one place separates these teams on the table, with both boasting a 4-2 record, however the percentage difference between the two is over 50%! With the exception of a first round win over Box Hill, Uni have come short when facing top teams and Quins are just that; the 2013 champions are yet to quite replicate that form, however there is no doubt that they are capable. They found their attacking mojo last week against Endeavour Hills, while Uni's defence was stoic against Footscray; which of those efforts is replicated this week will decide this match.
Melbourne Uni players to watch:
"For Uni, this is where the rubber hits the road; five teams have made a break on the Dewar shield table and if the status quo remains for the next month or so then one team will have to drop out of contention for finals. Uni will feel the loss of Steve Fualau, but there have been enough positive signs over the first seven rounds to indicate that this could be a tighter match than people think.
"Gab Navuni is the 'father figure' of a very young Uni side. Gab joined the Club this season and has been an inspiration to all. He is a man of few words, but his respect amongst the playing group is undeniable; when he does talk, the young Uni team listens to every word. Gab has been crucial to us through his line out calling and hard as nails defence around the ruck.
"Isea Halo has been a brilliant addition to the Club's roster this year. 'Ice' has cheeky sense of humour, which belies an ultra competitive young man who throws his lightweight frame into the contact zone. He possesses incredibly fast feet and a crazy step, and he finally understands when to shift the ball to his back line or take the space and have a crack himself." (Jason Jones, Melbourne Uni Head Coach)
Harlequin players to watch:
"Josh Meads is the 'Mr. Versatile' of our backline; he has the ability to cover every position and cover them well. He's been on the wing this year and on Saturday showed his ability as a finisher scoring 2 tries.
"Zac Dixon was one of the unsung heroes of our win last week. He was back to his workmanlike best and every team needs guys like him in it; a real grafter who puts the team before himself."
swingpass
Peter Sullivan (51)
iam assuming the john ulugia hooking for powerhouse today is not THE John Ulugia formally of ACT, NSW and currently at Clermont ?
http://www.melbournerebels.com.au/news/article/dewar-shield-teams-round-eight-2014
http://www.melbournerebels.com.au/news/article/dewar-shield-teams-round-eight-2014
swingpass
Peter Sullivan (51)
Dewar Shield Round 8
top four, Moorabbin, Box Hill, Harlequins and Melbourne, now have a bit of a points break over Uni who are fifth. the remainder are a long way back.
Rams remian underfeated.
Moorabbin 29 def Power House 23.
Box Hill 51 def Endeavour Hills 19.
Southern District 13 drew with Footscray 13.
Harlequins 19 def Melbourne University 10.
Melbourne BYE.
top four, Moorabbin, Box Hill, Harlequins and Melbourne, now have a bit of a points break over Uni who are fifth. the remainder are a long way back.
Rams remian underfeated.
Moorabbin 29 def Power House 23.
Box Hill 51 def Endeavour Hills 19.
Southern District 13 drew with Footscray 13.
Harlequins 19 def Melbourne University 10.
Melbourne BYE.
en_force_er
Geoff Shaw (53)
St.Kevs would go close to top of the club league because around half of their boys appear from the club system later on in secondary school anyway.
There's probably 20 points between Skevs and the next best school though.
Club is still better overall but Skevs are very good.
Like I've said above Skevs would go toe-to-toe with the best club sides but I'd imagine the next couple of schools would be mid-table in the club league. The weak clubs though are VERY weak and struggle to get boys down to training so they'd probably be worse than the worst schools.
He played juniors at Moorabbin and has family here so there's every chance it is. French season is over or close to over isn't it?
Maybe he's the Rebels signing for next year seeing as I think internationals (like Shota) can only stay for 2 years? They do make exceptions though (like Delve).
swingpass
Peter Sullivan (51)
Except that he plays for Clermont who are still in it. He turned down a Rebs offer last year to go to France
en_force_er
Geoff Shaw (53)
How many blokes called John Uglia do you think there are who play hooker to a decent standard and have reason to be in Melbourne?
They have Paulo and Kayser at Clermont, so I wouldn't rule out him missing out on the match day 23.
Highlander35
Andrew Slack (58)
No, Clermont dropped out of it in the "Quarter Final", played on the 10th may.
It could very well have been him.
swingpass
Peter Sullivan (51)
OK my bad
Highlander35
Andrew Slack (58)
On review, the comment was rather aggressive.
With it being playoff season I'm really pumped when it comes to my NH stuff, and the 6 playoff finals are coming up. (Don't care for French div 2, but go Bristol!)
pablo
Darby Loudon (17)
I didn't see the game so not sure if it was him, but know he has been at training at PH before and is a close friend of the 2 coaches Glenn and Eric (both ex-Rams).
Scoreline looked a lot bett for House, Box Hill keep rolling out the big wins!
pablo
Darby Loudon (17)
Other players to note on that list are 4 Mat Egan (broken leg v Footscray), 5 Glenn Fowles (current coach), 6 Jordan Fowles, 8 Sua Lilomiava (both played at Rams recently.
I did see from photos that both Bryan Scott and Tom Gilbert played so not sure if the listed team is an accurate reflection of the run out team.
elementfreak
Trevor Allan (34)
My assumptions on what the ladder is after this weekend's games.
Got some interesting match ups this weekend as well:
Endeavour Hills (8) v Footscray (7)
Harlequin (4) v Sth Districts (6)
Melbourne (3) v Box Hill (2)
Power House (9) v Melbourne Uni (5)
Moorabbin (1) v Bye
Got some interesting match ups this weekend as well:
Endeavour Hills (8) v Footscray (7)
Harlequin (4) v Sth Districts (6)
Melbourne (3) v Box Hill (2)
Power House (9) v Melbourne Uni (5)
Moorabbin (1) v Bye
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