The weather was not as kind as the previous year, with torrential downpours at frequent intervals. However this was not to the boys detriment as they outplayed a strong rugby side 26-21 with scores from Ralph Haville and Bruno(‘s Darb). Evidently the standard had been raised somewhat since last year. Following the one and only pool game due to a late drop out, the Magmen found themselves against a physical Rugby Freshers side who were keen to get one over on the boys after last year. A good defensive structure held firm initially but the rugby lads used their physicality to their advantage, and crossed the whitewash to take a 7-0 lead. Casey Dennis reduced the deficit to 7-7 at the half with a scything run to touch down under the stick, which was duly converted. The second half kicked off under the eyes of a large crowd; obviously the UWMHC’s exploits were attracting some attention. Some dogged defence kept the Rugby Freshers in the match, but poor discipline brought the opposition 2 yellow cards. From a restart, quick feet enabled Joey Dwonczyk to exploit the space, only to be hauled down metres short of the line. Support arrived, with the ball quickly recycled for Olli Derham to touch down in the corner. Despite missing the conversion, the Magmen’s staunch defence held on for a 12-7 victory. Battered and bruised, the club remained the only non-rugby side left in the Cup competition, and faced a strong 1st/2nd Rugby side in the semi-finals.
Unfortunately, an opportunistic try from Matt Jarmo was not enough to put the Magmen into the Cup Final. Owing to fatigue, injury and the conditions, the club bowed out valiantly for a 22-7 loss.
Nevertheless the day was a huge success, with the UWMHC making a name for themselves, and proving that they could indeed ‘hack it’ in and amongst the better rugby sides. With 3rd place secured (following an intense game of imaginary 5s), and Casey Dennis claiming player of the tournament, the Magmen hang up their boots, until next year that is.
Squad: M. Adewunmi, C. Auckland, J. Da Costa, C. Dennis, O. Derham, J. Dwonczyk, R. Haville (capt.), M. Howard, M. Jarmo, R. McGeachie, C. Nannestad, A. Stroud, E. Zeidler.