In a parents’ weekend clash which lived up to the pre-game hype, Robb College have ended their losing streak to St Albert’s College.
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Albies’ dominance over their university counterparts stretches back nearly four years with Robb’s last win against their rivals in their 2014 semi-final match up.
In front of a packed crowd at Bellevue on Saturday, Robb clinched the triumph in the final 10 minutes against their arch-rivals.
It took nearly 30 minutes for a point to be scored and they came via a penalty goal to St Albert’s.
With six minutes left in the opening half, Robb’s Josh Jones crossed for the first try for his side to hold a 7-3 lead at the break.
Jack Barham scored for Robb 10 minutes into the second session but Albies hit back moments after the restart with a Jack Lane-try.
The tussle continued after Lane’s try for a further 10 minutes before Robb half Charlie Steele-Park found his way over the white stripe to push his side’s lead out to 21-8.
Robb’s celebrations were short-lived as Albies scored back-to-back tries through Brendan Power and Jack Mullany.
With 10 minutes left on the clock, the scoreboard read 21-20 in favour of Robb.
At four minutes to go, Robb centre Liam Salmon muscled his way over for a try.
The conversion was missed and Albies were still in the match but their opponents held on to take the win 26-20.
Co-coaches Sam Ditchfield and David McCathie were elated with the victory.
“There was great footy across all grades, I think the third grade game was equal to the first grade game so it was a great result,” Ditchfield said.
“It is great to get a win against them, it has been a long time and it is really special for the boys because there are boys here who haven't won on parents' weekend and this was their last crack at it.”
McCathie said: “Particularly pleased for the boys because they have worked really hard and they up for this today.”
“Obviously a fantastic rivalry between the colleges so we are just really pleased for them.
“[Robb] persevered really well and hung in there but bearing in mind it is only round six and there is a long way to go.”