For anyone whose focus is as much on club rugby as the commercial game, last Saturday’s Sydney club results made alarming and depressing reading.
In first grade, strugglers Parramatta did well to hold Eastwood to 36-21.
But some of the lower grade results defied belief. In reserve grade, Eastwood beat Parramatta 74-5. Third grade was close (22-19 to Eastwood), but the Eastwood fourth grade had a bye, there being no Parramatta team to take them on.
In first grade, Manly thrashed Penrith 140-0. West Harbour beat Southern Districts 78-14, while Eastwood put Parramatta to the sword, 100-7. In second grade, Gordon beat Randwick 75-7, while in third grade Gordon beat Randwick 85-12.
Below senior first grade level, rugby is supposed to be a game for the players, a game to be enjoyed. Terrible mismatches such as those we saw last weekend are not just humiliating for the losers. As any former or current player will tell you, there is no joy to be had in cricket score victories over weak opposition.
Let’s hope the outclassed teams resist the temptation to default their matches, further reducing opportunities for young players to have a game of rugby.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.
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