Vikings Triumph in High-Scoring Encounter

The Shamrocks 1st Grade squad faced a stern test against a resilient Vikings outfit, ultimately succumbing to a 48-31 defeat in Round 17 of the Illawarra District Rugby Union competition. Despite a promising start from the home team, the visitor’s clinical second-half performance proved too much for the gallant Shamrocks side.

Shamrocks Grit and Determination

Despite the eventual defeat, the Shamrocks 1st Grade squad can take heart from their determined display. Ben Stewart, Tom Ah Tong, Harry Linden, Ben Ridgway and Oliver Alexander all scored tries for the Rocks, showcasing the team’s resilience and ability to trouble even the most formidable opponents. This side was made up of a number of players who were called on to double-up and play again. The true Shamrock spirit was on display for the large 2025 Community Day supporters to continually vocally demonstrate their appreciation for this team’s great work.

The performance highlighted the Shamrocks’ continued development, with the squad demonstrating the kind of intensity and tactical discipline that has grown throughout this season. Schoupp’s reliable goal-kicking and the contributions of Linden, Ridgway, and Smith provided further evidence of the team’s growing maturity.

Season Implications and Takeaways

The result leaves the Shamrocks in 7th place on the Illawarra 1st Grade ladder, with 8 competition points from 11 matches. While the defeat is undoubtedly disappointing, the team can take heart from their ability to compete with the high-flying Vikings for extended periods.

Despite the disappointment of this result, the Shamrocks have demonstrated the fighting spirit and tactical acumen to remain competitive throughout the 2025 campaign. With a little more luck, this team is certainly capable of showing their willingness to match it with any team in this competition.

With a BYE to finish the season, this was the First Grade’s last game, and all their focus is now on supporting the Second Grade side’s push into the Finals Series. Tom Ah Tong took the 3 points, Thom Davis gained 2 points and 1 point was awarded to both Ben Stewart and Dave Smith. It was Dave’s 300th game and he even took the glory with a conversion. Who knew?

[PREVIOUS ARTICLE LINK: https://shamrocksrugby.com.au/new/shamrocks-show-fight-but-fall-short-against-clinical-campbelltown-match-overview/] The Shamrocks’ performance against the Vikings shows signs of improvement compared to their previous heavy defeat against Campbelltown. While the result was not what they had hoped for, the team’s grit and determination to compete for long periods is a positive step in the right direction. FIXTURE RESULTS