First XV versus St Aloysius - 13 June 2009

Greg Goodman 06/17/2009

Reds win out 20-17 over Alo's

After a slow start to the season the First XV finally found form in the home game against premiership contenders St Aloysius last weekend. In a stirring game that was not decided until the final few minutes Barker ran out worthy winners by 20 points to 17.

From the time the boys ran onto the field it was clear that there was a resolve and commitment that this was a must win game against a team who had only the week before had beaten the highly fancied Knox team. From the kick off until the final whistle the whole team played with a fearsome spirit, making every tackle count, contesting every breakdown and more than holding their own in the set pieces. Whatever coach Maloney told the boys at training during the week had clearly sunk in and for the first time this season the boys showed what quality rugby they can play.

While it was a genuine team effort some of the boys who stood out were David Kirkby, who scored an excellent solo try and Harry Nemeth, the one man wrecking machine who constantly taunted the Aloysius players with his speed and strength, finishing well on top of his much vaunted opposition centre. All of the forwards played their hearts out, including the front row and the two flankers. One Aloysius parent was heard to comment that numbers 6 and 7 (Ben Ryan and Stu Goodman) were dominating all over the park. Nick Webb and Chris Leaper were in all the action, with Chris scoring an excellent try. Winger Tom Williamson added the other 5 pointer with a slick effort in the corner. The final successful kick from the sideline by Scott Purcell was a fitting end to a high class match.

Strategically Barker played not only the better but also the smarter Rugby, sticking to the game plan to close down the Aloysius attack and to retain possession for long periods.

The throng of Barker supporters who invaded the field to congratulate the boys after the game had every right to be proud of their team.