It has always been a goal of the Army to travel interstate and actively support the Rebels. Even in its infancy (back in 2009), it was a milestone for us to head into what you would jokingly call “enemy territory” and show other supporters what Australian rugby was missing.
On Saturday night, we achieved this goal, in more ways than we could see.
It started with supporter’s touch-match between the Army and the Tah Patrol (Green and Gold Rugby), which was staged at the Sydney Roosters training ground in Moore Park.
Historically, it was the site where visiting representative teams, including Victoria, trained.
The game itself was played in great spirit, ending in handshakes, photos and customary beers. You’d have to ask yourself, though, how often does that happen with supporters in general?
With the camaraderie aside, it was time to head to the Sydney Football Stadium and engage in ‘white line fever’.
At the suggestion of the NSW Rugby Union/Waratahs, the Rebel Army and Tah Patrol would occupy two bays, side by side at the Northern end.
It was hoped this would take the rivalry into the stands and create a vocal atmosphere, something lacking at NSW games (and other provinces). The desired effect was achieved in some regards.
The Tah Patrol did their best considering that the concept of active support is new or foreign to them.
The Army could have been better also, though considering our numbers and newcomers, it was difficult to attempt complex chants.
However, I was pleasantly surprised when several other pockets of Rebels and Waratahs supporters became vocal.
Post-match, Nic from the Tah Patrol congratulated us (with a photo) and we also received feedback from several other supporters, appreciating what we were trying to do.
Even though the result on both occasions didn’t go our way, the general consensus was that rugby was better for it.
We hope to repeat the feat when the Brumbies host the Rebels in Canberra.
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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