A lack of personnel on the night forced a late change of format in Mount Isa Rugby Union’s final outing for 2018 but it all ended up right on the night.
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The original format of the tens night was a three way contest between Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islanders.
But with the Aussies and Kiwis short, they combined together to take on the Islanders in one bone-jarring 80 minute game of tens, split across four 20 minute quarters.
MIRU president Kurt McGregor, who played for the Anzacs, said it was a tough workout.
“It was very draining of the body but at the same time it was fun and a very entertaining game,” Mr McGregor said.
And after 80 minutes the two sides could not be split, the game ending in an unlikely 58-58 draw.
“After 80 minutes of play there was 116 points scored and we were all even!,” Mr McGregor said.
“We were so tired we decided not to play golden point so we went to the bar to decide the trophy on a ‘boat race’.”
Apparently the Islanders “rowing” skills came to fore to take out the trophy.
Mr McGregor said it was good to see the Australians and New Zealand play on the same side and it was great way to end the year.
Play resumes for 2019 on Saturday February 2 with the MIRU Summer Carnival Sevens.
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