Narrowly missing out on second place on the ladder behind Harlequin, the Students have undoubtedly been one of the best teams this year, displaying their dominance in a five-try first half to set up the lead.

Uni opened quickly, with two tries in less than five minutes to set the pace of the first half. Nekini Qicatube was first to cross after intercepting an errant pass in the Unicorns’ 22, followed closely by Taiso Silafai-Leanna who scored twice in the first half.

Despite tries for the Unicorns’ through Usie Manu and Simi Eliesa, the Students’ defence proved too strong, with the difference out to 36-13 at half time.

The Unicorns’ had a big task ahead of them going into the second half, and while they were unable to score the points to take the lead, they can be credited to slowing the Students’ pace down, with only a try to each side in a quiet half.

With the game turning into a defensive show down, University’s Josh Cocker-Valu was able to cross just before the hour mark. The Unicorns’ Chris Ling found their only try of the second half with less than five minutes on the clock, leaving the final score line at 45-18.

Melbourne Uni 46

Tries: Matthew Onesemo, Josh Cocker-Valu, Taiso Silafai-Leaana (2), Mike Lau-Leong, Nekini Qicatube

Conversions: Nuia Puaka (5)

Penalties: Nuia Puaka (2)

Melbourne 18

Tries: Albert Aiolupotea, Chris Ling, Uiese Manu

Penalties: Paul McConnochie

Photo courtesy Andrew Stevenson Photography. All proceeds from Dewar Shield photos sold by Andrew will go to the Maciu Vosa rehabilitation fund.

Source: Rebels Media Unit

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