Vikings Edge Out Premiers To Secure Second On Ladder

In a pulsating entertaining match at University Oval, Vikings have boosted their premiership credentials with a thrilling 26 – 21 victory over the University Bulls. In the round six IDRU Builders Club Premiership match a large crowd enjoyed a closely contested eighty minutes in which the lead changed seven times before the Blueys lifted late to pinch the result from the defending premiers.

Coming off a disappointing effort against Shamrocks last week, the students started the match with high intensity out enthusing the Blueys at the breakdown throughout the first half. In a sign that there was not much between the sides in the opening half each side scored two tries before the Bulls went to the break with a one point lead. Vikings crossed for two second half tries to secure the bonus point win, confirming second spot on the table and leaving Uni seventh after six rounds.

The Bulls welcomed back skipper Paul Tuala and veteran Donovan Nepia who were instrumental in the early stages of the match. With Nepia showing his outstanding kicking game getting Uni out of early trouble, it was a Uni trademark rolling maul that produced the first points after four minutes. Hard working flanker Damien Mei got the five pointer for Uni to take an early lead of 7 – 0 after Nepia’s conversion.

Both sides contributed to what was a very high paced game, keeping the large Ladies Day crowd enthralled. On the back of four phases of play close to the Uni line, diminutive Vikings No.8 Simon Watts stole a try for his side sneaking down the side of a maul from close range. Illawarrior halfback Tommy Sawden converted for the scores to be equal after twenty minutes.