London Australia pipped at the final hurdle

ON Saturday, the London Australian representative Tag Rugby teams were represented in the Men’s, Mixed A grade & Mixed social divisions at the Try Tag Rugby International Cup tournament, held at Richmond College in Twickenham.

London Australia set out to defend their titles in all three divisions, being the current undefeated reigning champions across the board. The London Australia Mixed A grade side topped the pool stages with wins over England (4-2), London New Zealand (3-2), London Barbarians (6-3) and London Ireland (7-0) which earned the side a place in the final against the London Barbarians.

The London Barbarians ended up inflicting London Australia’s (Mixed A grade) first ever defeat at an International Cup tournament in a spectacular final, winning 3-2. In the Men’s division, the Aussies claimed another International Cup trophy and remained undefeated by defeating London South Africa 5-1 in the final. Aussie, Murray Crapp, was awarded the “Player of the Final” award. Amazingly, the Aussies only had 1 try conceded all tournament with the following pool stage victories over London Ireland (10-0), London Wales (4-0), London France (6- 0) and a semi final win over England (5-0).

The Aussies finished 3rd in the Mixed Social division, starting off strong with wins over the London Barbarians (9-2) & England (7-0). The last two pool matches were a draw against London New Zealand (3-3) and a loss against London Ireland (4-6) which was not enough for the Aussies to progress to the final, finishing 3rd overall proving how close this division was. The London Australian representative Tag Rugby teams are proudly sponsored by ImagesGB and Australian Times.

Meanwhile, Early Winter Tag Rugby competitions kicked off recently across the capital. Early Winter competitions take place at Barnes, Bermondsey, Borough, Kingsbury & Rotherhithe. Competitions are full at Borough and Rotherhithe but there are still spaces available at Barnes, Bermondsey and Kingsbury. New team and individual registrations are welcome as this is a great chance to develop a network of friends if you are new to London.