It’s try time for Endeavour Hills Rugby Union player Aaron Ross, who crossed to put Hills in front of Monash University on Saturday.By Glen Atwell
THE Endeavour Hills Rugby Union Club will definitely be buying a lottery ticket this week after a heart-stopping A Grade elimination final at Frog Hollow Reserve on Saturday.
Officials had to refer to the league ladder to separate the Endeavour Hills and Monash University teams after two periods of extra time could not resolve the 15-15 draw.
The Hills enjoyed a 10-3 lead at half-time after crossing twice, but were run off their feet as Monash clawed their way back into the game.
Under constant attack, the Hills defence finally gave way, allowing Monash to score a try close to goals and convert the kick to tie the game 10-all.
Fifteen minutes of furious rugby followed, but at full-time the scores were still level.
Two 10-minute halves followed, but it only took the Monash side eight minutes to find the try line and pull away 10-15.
But the resolve and determination of the classy Hills side prevailed as Junior Faiva crossed with seconds remaining to again tie the scores.
Confusion reigned until officials confirmed the Endeavour Hills side would be declared the winner and progress to the semi-final.
The superior scoring power of the Hills side throughout the season was the only difference between the two clubs, and the only way officials could find a winner.
Monash pushed the Hills to breaking point, but failed to score enough points during the season to progress to the next finals round.
Endeavour Hills coach Deon Davis said it was an unbelievable match.
“My heart stopped a few times, it was one of those see-sawing games,” he said.
Davis said he knew the Monash side would make a charge after half-time.
“After our easy win last week, I think it was good for our boys to be tested.
“The intensity was great and will help us prepare for next week against Wyndham City,” Davis said.
Hills takes on Wyndham City in the first semi-final at 3.05pm this Saturday.
The match will be played at Victoria University’s Hoppers Crossing campus.
