Junior Volcanoes notch first win in Pacific Cup
FOR the first time in three years, the U19 National Development Rugby Team has defeated Hong Kong and secured its first win in the First Pacific Cup. The Philippines drew first blood after an intercept try to winger John Michael Donina. Donina launched off the defensive line and found open space to capture the ball midair to speed off to take the
Philippines to the lead. Raphael Barberis secured the extra two points. It wasn’t long until Hong Kong bounced back, Mervyn Lo, with his quick feet and agility, broke through the Philippines defensive line to score in the 15th minute and closed the gap.
The Philippines returned fire right before half time, Barberis providing support play and adding another five points to the Philippines tally. The second half remained tightly contested, both teams holding strong. The Philippines continued with their defense and once again turned pressure into attack securing yet to John Michael continued off a of another intercept try Aquino. The Philippines to show passion and grit, holding valiant Hong for the remainder the game, winning 17 to 5.
The international development series has been running for three years, Hong Kong winning in 2016 and 2017. A special feat to win the title in 2018 according to Jake a Letts, Philippine Rugby’s
General Manager.
The National
Teams Program has been quite successful in 2018 for the Philippine Rugby Football Union. The union boasts a record of six wins from seven international matches for their 15s program. The Volcanoes will now turn to the upcoming Asia Sevens Series in September and October. Both the Men’s and Women’s National Teams to play against the top teams in Asia, starting on September 14 and 15 for the Men’s in Hong Kong and late October for the Women’s in Brunei.