Victories for Kavallieri and Alligators

Kavallieri 34
Overseas 15

On an afternoon of strong winds, the game started well for Kavallieri with one try and then another by flanker Daniel Grima after a battling run which shrugged off three defenders before he was over the line.

It was to be a hard-working afternoon for both packs. Kavallieri initially held territorial advantage but the Overseas defence stiffened as the game progressed and showed a skill at binding and recycling. Nor were they slow to take advantages when they presented themselves.

After two unsuccessful penalty kicks at goal, Simon Schembri scored.

In the second half, Overseas dominated for long periods. Kempers' fine work produced very good runs which were rewarded with a try. Kavallieri, however, even against the run of play, are a difficult team to unnerve.

Michael Bonavia was very active, Kurt Psaila tackled hard and both Joseph Cutajar and Daniel Grima (a try) were prominent in the line-outs.

Hibs Sharks 24
Alligators 30

This was an interesting game which saw a strengthened Sharks facing Alligators with a re-jigged scrum. As an overall view, the Alligators' advances stemmed from controlled pushes in the set scrum with their flankers taking the ball on when this stalled. Sharks went for a quicker heel to let their backs loose to gain territorial advantage.

It was an even game which was reflected in the half-time score of 17-15 in favour of Sharks. Alligators were expected to take advantage of what was by now gale force winds, and go for long kicks into touch, but they elected for the closer game.

This did pay off in the end even though the Sharks forwards were steely in defence and at one stage put in a wonderful loose drive which carried them a full 25m up the field.

Fine individual performances were seen all afternoon. Perhaps, a draw would have been a fairer reflection of the game.

Ladies' sevens

Kavallieri 25
Panthers 0

Kavallieri, the most experienced women's team, against Panthers, the smallest and most recently formed, is not exactly a match between equals.

Panthers are still in need of passing and catching skills but no-one can say they lack enthusiasm for the game. Emma Fenech Soler had a good game and Corinne Vella is particularly aggressive in the tackle.

Newcomer Donna Frendo was playing for the first time but she looks a complete natural at the sport.

But 7s is all about possession and putting fast runners into open spaces - this is the uncomplicated game which Kavallieri excel at.