Singapore Polytechnic, Friday, 2 January 2009 – It seemed like it could be anybody's game during the Institute-Varsity-Polytechnic (IVP) touch rugby match between Republic Polytechnic (RP) and Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP).
Within the first ten minutes, Eunice Chu, RP, impressed everyone by scoring a touchdown and it seemed from the start that the RP team was in clear control of the ball. Not content to just sit back and let them dominate the game, NYP stepped up on the offense and was able to secure two points. Samantha Wun from NYP claimed responsibility for placing her team on the scoreboard with a touchdown at the wings. Spectators were then treated to a tug-of-war between the two contingents, as they attempted to attack and defend respectively.
The second half displayed a more aggressive approach by RP. With commendable teamwork, RP was able to form a smooth passing arrangement near touchdown. However due to some unfortunate fumbling with the ball and the rough tags from NYP, RP was not able to score as effectively.
Rachel Goh, vice captain of the NYP team remarks, “One of our plus points was that we put up a strong defence during the game.”
NYP also boasted another point scored by Zubaidah Binte Bahtiar She adds, “I was able to touchdown via a side step. I would never have achieved it if not for the support of my team members.”
But one of the most thrilling goals came from Eunice Chu who scored her second goal in the latter half. In possession of the ball after a long-distanced pass from her teammate. She then, outran all the other members from the rival team and sprinted to touchdown.
Other scorers from RP were Juraini Saini, Suryanti Suryono and Claudia Jeanette. After the final whistle was blown, the scoreboard stood at 5-2, led by RP.
Boo Hui Min, Republic Polytechnic's coach remarks “It was a great game as both teams were tightly matched. We are lucky to have the win.”
When asked to name the Man-of-the-Match, Boo singled out Suryanti Suryono. “She showed much leadership and control on the field. Suryono was the main playmaker over the attacking and defending aspects of the game today.”
Suryono says, “It was a very thrilling game. In terms of RP's performance, I would rate it as seven and a half out of ten. We can still improve in areas of communication and understanding between players.”
Watch out for Suryono as she has been selected to represent Singapore in the upcoming Touch Rugby World Cup.
Despite suffering a defeat this time, the NYP players still remained optimistic. Lynette Lim says, “Even though we lost, but I think we played a great game. We are proud of ourselves.” That's the spirit!