The stage was set for an exhilarating showdown at the Nigel Rugby Club as the Rhino Cup 2023/2024 reached its climax on a scorching Saturday afternoon. With the sun beating down on the pitch, Rabbitohs Blue Rugby League Club clashed with Grizzlies Rugby League Club in the Rhino Cup Final.
Referee Michael Viljoen blew his whistle, signaling the start of what would prove to be an epic encounter. From the outset, it was clear that both teams were intent on seizing the initiative, eager to assert their dominance early on. The Rabbitohs drew first blood, scoring a converted try within the opening three minutes, sending their supporters into raptures.
However, their joy was short-lived as the Grizzlies swiftly responded with a flurry of three converted tries, showcasing their attacking ability and putting Rabbitohs on the back foot. Not to be outdone, Rabbitohs answering back with three tries of their own, supplemented by two conversions, to wrestle back control of the match.
With the clock ticking down, Grizzlies managed to edge ahead once more, notching up another converted try to narrow the gap. Yet Rabbitohs refused to relent, digging deep to secure a crucial converted try of their own just before halftime, ensuring the scoreboard read Rabbitohs 28, Grizzlies 24 as the teams retreated to the changing rooms for a well-earned break.
The second half promised to be just as intense as the first, with neither side willing to concede an inch. Grizzlies came out of the blocks firing on all cylinders, capitalizing on their momentum to score two converted tries, much to the dismay of the Rabbitohs faithful. Despite a valiant effort from Rabbitohs, who managed to claw back a try of their own, their failure to convert left them trailing behind.
With time running out, Grizzlies seized control of proceedings, extending their lead with a well-executed drop goal on the 76th minute, much to the delight of their supporters. Despite Rabbitohs’ best efforts, they were unable to overturn the deficit, with Grizzlies emerging victorious as the final whistle blew.
Grizzlies clinched the Rhino Cup for the 2023/2024 season, earning them a hard-fought victory with a final score of 37 points to Rabbitohs’ 32.
