Swieqi Overseas 30
Kavallieri 21

Overseas were always a little more incisive than Kavallieri and their dangerous backs had a definite edge particularly in the first half of this decisive Cisk League match at the Marsa ground that was to determine the new domestic champions.

Overseas also had an advantage in the set scrums which allowed them to slow down Kavallieri’s possession.

Both sides were determined to play a fast running game but the Overseas backs were more skilful in passing and timing.

Nevertheless, the Kavallieri defence was hard to crack.

Some fine running and offloading put Overseas well in the Kavallieri half. The Kavallieri backs went offside for Briffa to open the score with a penalty.

Griffiths kicked a long one for Kavallieri which was snatched by the speedy Horne who ran in for a try under the posts, converted by Griffiths.

Fine and penetrative offloading took Overseas close and Briffa dropped a good goal to take them within a point, 7-6.

After another period of sustained Overseas pressure, it was Briffa again who raced to reach a flat pass and drove over, converting his own try.

The Overseas backs were becoming dominant and mounting repeated attacks with determined runners like Seychell proving hard to stop.

McDonald’s slicing acceleration gained ground again and again. Briffa added another penalty as Kavallieri crumpled a little under pressure.

Finally Briffa kicked high, Horne failed to catch, Julver pounced the favourable bounce and weaved his way over. Briffa converted for Overseas who led 23-7 at half-time.

The old Kavallieri spirit kicked in after the break with a series of attacks wearing down Overseas and forcing them into mistakes.

The Bonavia brothers were an inspiration and Kavallieri slowly ground their way back into the game.

They fought upfield and Rob Bonavia drove over for a try, converted by Griffiths.

Then, Overseas player Galea was given a yellow card and Kavallieri took advantage.

De Gabriele scored another driving try after a series of attempts with Griffiths converting to throw the game wide open (23-21).

But, Overseas hit back and spent several minutes on the Kavallieri line even though they could not breach the line.

Finally, as Kavallieri tried to launch an attack from their own 22, Imbroll lost possession and McDonald scored a final try, yet again converted by Briffa.

As Kavallieri launched desperate attacks, Doublesin was yellowcarded for a professional foul and the battle was over.

Overseas took the spoils to seal their national title success.

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