Hutchins prevails in tight contest

A CLASSIC game between a powerful Hobart Hutchins Lions and resurgent University at the Uni ground was match of the round in the Tasmanian Rugby Union competition.

The Lions came out firing with two tries in the first 10 minutes. A large forward pack gained metres up the middle and University simply couldn’t get hold of the ball to unleash their classy backs.

However, in what would prove to be one of many momentum swings, University began working the ball mercilessly through the outside centre channels to great effect, piling on penalties and tries in the subsequent 20 minutes.

After half time both teams looked to secure possession. It was a rolling maul down the short side that allowed Paulo Saisoa to score a crucial five pointer. With 10 minutes to go Uni did score again, but the Lions were good enough to hold on and ran out winners 36-30.

Sammy Lopa had an outstanding game for the Lions, using his muscle to go forward around the ruck fringes, including a try, and having a good day off the tee to score most of the Lions points.

The Taroona Penguins game against Glenorchy Stags was a one-sided affair. The final score was 66-0, shattering the hearts of the Stags faithful.

“We lost by a lot, not much to say,” Stags coach William Thomas suggested. “Our second half was very good but the horse had bolted.”

Patty Garnham had a cracking game at loose head for Taroona including breaking his try scoring duck.

In the final southern game, Harlequins took on the Eastern Suburbs Roosters and never really looked in danger. Quins were on song to record a 62-24 victory.

In the Northern games, the Australian Maritime Vikings beat the Burnie Emus 92-0 while the Devonport Bulls beat Launceston Barbarians 36-12.