Scores from LCpl Michael McDonald (RE), Rfn Vereimi Qorowale (Rifles) and Lt Dylan Morris (RLC) saw the Reds surge into a 19-0 lead at the break during the army men’s senior team in their remembrance clash with the US military. Their efforts appeared to lay the foundations for a resounding victory in the mould of their 47-17 success last season.
But the tourists held firm in the second period, when an increase in possession and territory saw them match the soldiers’ attacking output as the game ended 31-12 – much to the delight of the near 1,000-strong crowd at the Army Rugby Stadium in Aldershot.
The hosts opened the scoring in the tenth minute as a smart sidestep from LCpl Jack Johnson (RE) sparked an attack from the half-way line.
LCpl Oni Nayagi (R Yorks) then punched through the defence with a strong carry, leaving McDonald with the task of stretching to the line from close range.
A quick tap penalty from scrum half McDonald set the platform for Qorowale to score the team’s second, and he was also heavily involved in their third try.
His chip over the top was expertly gathered on a slick surface by Johnson, who popped the ball up to the supporting Morris to cross in the corner.
Hooker Ryan Leonard reduced the arrears in the 43rd minute as he pounced on a loose ball at the lineout, before Nayagi hit back with a deserved score following a storming run from number eight SSgt Matt Dawson (Int Corps, pictured above).
A prolonged spell of US pressure on the army line was rewarded as prop James Irey crashed over on the hour mark but hopes of a comeback were dealt a crushing blow moments later as Sam Follensbee fumbled a box kick, allowing Pte Adriu Muritoki (Scots) to run clear from inside his own half.
“We did not have much time together in the build-up, so we just focused on our attack,” army skipper Bdr Pete Austin (RA) told SoldierSport afterwards.
“That second half was a big test for us, and while we hadn’t worked on our defence, we showed the passion we have for that red shirt.
“Their forwards were brilliant and physical up front, which has given us a lot to think about moving forwards.
“We have a clear direction in terms of what we need to focus on and they did a fantastic job in stepping up.
“This is more than just a game. Playing against the US makes it a patriotic occasion and there was so much shouting and screaming in the crowd – it is what military rugby is all about.”
