The sun was out, but the Jesuit field still had some patches of mud. The teams were slowed down at times, but McClatchy came to play. It was Jesuit that got on the scoreboard first by pouncing on a spilled ball to punish the Lions in the first 30 seconds.  Flanker Max Sackett walked into the corner to score. Fullback Mason Phillips missed the sideline conversion. McClatchy started to work their pattern and were successful punching it in at the 7-minute mark.  

Jesuit was able to keep the Lions pinned deep and punished a turnover. Fly half Vili Hopoi forced his way over the line 21 minutes into the game.  Phillips converted to give Jesuit a 5-point lead.  Max Sackett had another try after a period of sustained pressure.  Phillips converted.  

McClatchy would not stop.  They scored two quick tries within two minutes to make it a 3-point game at the half.

Halftime: Jesuit 22 – McClatchy 19

The second half saw the Marauders dig a deep hole with two players picking up yellow cards.  Cool heads and sustained pressure saw Jesuit pick up a penalty.  Phillips converted to keep the scoreboard ticking over.  He hit another at the 65 minute mark.  Jesuit closed the game out with a simple try that saw Devin Florez touch down.  Phillips converted to end the game.

Final Score: Jesuit 35 – McClatchy 19

Players of the Match – Forward Laiatu Latu and Back Vili Hopoi

“McClatchy came to play and are a well coached side. They are a Top 10 team in the nation and were missing a few top players, so we will see them again in April,” said Head Coach John Shorey. “We were under pressure playing with 13 players, but we played smart rugby – taking our points and playing the conditions. It is a credit to the players who led this team.”