Union faced tough opposition in East London
On Saturday, 11 May, Union’s rugby teams played against Stirling in a much-anticipated clash.
In the games that preceded that of the 1st XV’s, our U/14A team lost 12 – 20, the U/15As lost 0 – 32, the U/16As lost 7 – 21 and the second team won 36 – 34.
The match between the two school’s 1st XVs lived up to expectations and was an incredibly tough, physical game with both teams having to put everything on the line.Union put on a much-improved performance at the set pieces and were able to match Stirling up front and dominate at times.
Union scored first through a penalty from Brett Amsterdam. The game kept spectators on the edge of their seats for the full 35 minutes of the first half, where Union held the lead with 15 minutes to go until Stirling managed to score two tries leading up to the break. Brett Amsterdam then put over another penalty on the brink of half-time. Stirling’s two tries outscored Union’s two penalties, leaving the score to stand at 10 – 6 at half-time.
At the turn, both sides continued to put together phases of attack which was met with fierce defence.
Stirling, however, managed to take a further lead with two tries early on in the second half. Union continued to hold their own and managed to cross the line through Mack Rubidge, keeping Union in the game. Unfortunately, in the end, Stirling proved too strong and managed to cross the line twice through some tiring defence in the last two minutes, winning the match 34 – 11.
Despite the tough opposition faced on the day, the Union boys did their school and supporters proud and played with great heart, never giving up and consistently showing great sportsmanship throughout the day.
All in all, it was a great day of rugby and a fixture Union’s rugby teams will continue to look forward to.
Despite the tough opposition faced on the day, the Union boys did their school and supporters proud and played with great heart, never giving up and always showing great sportsmanship throughout the day. All in all it was a great day of rugby and a fixture we will continue to look forward to.