KRS Diamond League Game 3
STAROBA (16) vs KL Tigers (14)

On paper, it should be an easy game for KL Tigers - one of the strongest team around, the sparring partners of our national XV team. Rumour has it, they have yet to lose to a local team in the past 3 years. Comparing head to head between the two, their pack is bigger, stronger and have been playing together longer than their opponent.

As far as the league is concerned, both teams came into the match unbeaten in their last 2 games. Previously STAROBA had demolished Rangers 26-5, whilst KL Tigers mauled SMSOB 36-5.

KL Tigers were brimming with confidence, looking forward for another scalps to add to their impressive winning records. They attacked STAROBA from the first whistle and relentlessly pushed forward using their physical advantage and brute force. They came in waves and dominated the opening of the game. For their efforts, the Tigers scored the first points of the game vide a try in the 10 mins and successfully converted the conversion to lead 7-0. Despite of their domination, KL Tigers were unable to increase the tally and the score remained until the whistle to bring in the players for the break.

STAROBA strived as a underdogs. If the first half belonged to KL Tigers, STAROBA defiantly owned the second half. It was where they executed their game plan to perfection, running down and tiring the Tigers out. And they did it in style. STAROBA reduced the margin to 7-3 after a penalty conversion by Mohamad Fahmi Zainudin in 43rd minutes. Indisciplined of KL Tigers presented STAROBA with the chance to reduce the margin further. Mohamad Fahmi added another 3 points to the board in 48th minutes, 7-6 to KL Tigers. Stunned by 2 consecutive penalty conversion and faced with the prospect of having their winning records broken, KL Tigers sprung into action and scored a try in the 55 mins to swing the tide of the match back in their favour.

It was a do or die time for STAROBA, another slip up will give KL Tiger an insurmountable lead. Digging deep into their reserve, STAROBA forced a try trough well organised pick and go drives. A try by Muhammad Amirul Syafiq and Muhammad Zulhilmi Rosli with a successful ensuing conversion brought the match to a one point game.

Another error by KL Tigers presented STAROBA with the chance to go in front for the first time for the entire game. There was no need for a second invitation for this. Muhammad Zulhilmi Rosli, kept his nerve of steel, stepped up and converted the penalty to earn STAROBA a well deserved victory, 16-14.

Photos courtesy of Staroba Rugby
Writing credits to Ragbi Online