Sydney, Australia – The Philippine Rugby League marked a significant weekend of international fixtures, securing hard-fought wins against the formidable Malta Knights and Malta Dames. Both matches showcased the spirit, resilience, and depth of talent within the Philippine teams, cementing their status as competitive forces in the rugby league world.
Tamaraws’ Last-Minute Heroics
In a gripping match that kept spectators on edge at Cabramatta, the Philippine Tamaraws on 26 October 2024, edged out the Malta Knights with a dramatic last-minute try, claiming a 26-24 victory. The game was a testament to the fierce competition between both sides, punctuated by a legendary farewell from inaugural player Steven Bernstrom.
Reflecting on his final match for the Tamaraws, Bernstrom remarked, “This is my last game of Rugby League for the Philippines. It’s awesome that we’ve ended the way we started… Today we win again in Cabramatta in the last minute as well. It’s awesome to finish my Rugby League career this way!”
The Tamaraws set the pace early, with Johansel Avery crossing the line in the 7th minute after a fumbled kick by Malta, converted by Nikolas Forrest for a 6-0 lead. The first half was a fierce contest, punctuated by an outstanding effort from debutant Liam Byrnes, leading to Isaac Rosario’s second try and a 16-6 halftime lead.
However, the second half saw Malta mount an impressive comeback, scoring three unanswered tries to snatch a 24-16 lead. The Tamaraws, undeterred, clawed back with Isaac Acheampong’s determined try in the corner, narrowing the deficit. In a dramatic twist, with just two minutes remaining, Ned Stephenson intercepted a pass and sprinted 90 meters to score under the posts, sealing the victory for the Philippines. Forrest’s conversion brought the final score to 26-24.
Sampaguitas’ Grit and Glory
The Philippine Sampaguitas on 28 October 2024 faced a challenging match against the Malta Dames in a friendly International 9s format. Despite an early setback with the Dames scoring within the first two minutes, the Sampaguitas showcased their resolve. Natalie Webb responded swiftly, cutting the lead to 6-4 by the end of the first period.
The match’s second period mirrored the first, with early points by the Dames followed by an exhilarating solo run from halfback Payge Condon, bringing the score to 10-8. A powerful display from prop Michelle Koch pushed the Sampaguitas ahead, and Condon’s second try extended their lead to 20-10. Debutant Mania Harris-Wilson added her name to the scoreboard, bringing the score to 24-10 by the period’s end.
The final period saw Malta stage a spirited fightback, narrowing the gap to 28-24 with three consecutive tries. Yet, with just seconds remaining and fatigue setting in, team founder Tammy Fletcher, making a return from retirement, delivered the decisive try, solidifying a 32-24 victory.
Celebrating Philippine Rugby
These victories were not just wins on the scoreboard but a celebration of Philippine rugby’s journey and growth. The Pambansang Ragbi Liga ng Pilipinas (PNRL), committed to promoting and developing rugby in the Philippines, showcased their dedication through these commendable performances. As members of the Philippine Olympic Committee and the Asia-Pacific Rugby League Confederation, the PNRL continues to push for broader participation and excellence in the sport.
