With 2 representatives in 2 different semi-finals, NTU was the only team that had the probability of having both teams in the finals. That idea may be far-fetched, but at least it was mathematically possible. The thing is, rugby is neither about maths nor rolling dices. It is a combination of strength, skill, technique, tactics, teamwork, trust, believe, hardwork and the list goes on. Alas, it does not matter how many teams you have in the semi-finals but who makes it to the finals.
On paper, the first semi final had an epic written all over it as both sides had a fair amount of talent in the squad. However, games are not fought on paper as NTU A were beaten 24-0 by their opponents. The scoreline though did not do justice to our players efforts as we had our moments in the game. Our players are as good as the opponents if not better but as a unit, we could not match them in their gameplay.
In the second semi-final, our B team were outstanding in the first few minutes of the game camping in the opponent’s half as they piled the early pressure. The team got very close to scoring as they had a penalty 5 metres from the tryline but they just could not find a way past the SMU defence. Instead, it was SMU A who scored somewhat against the run of play as a turnover at a ruck inside their half and quick hands out wide released their speedy winger down the touchline for a try. From then on, there was no turning back as SMU scored a couple more tries to win the semi-final tie and meet NUS A at the finals.
At the end of the day, the silverware has once again eluded us despite the players giving in their all for the team. As ex-flyhalf Ren Han aptly puts it, “Same Shit, Different Year”
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