Champions Manila Nomads look for Redemption in Round 2

Philippine Volcano Robert Amalay Jones in action

Philippine Volcano Joe Palabay Dawson of Eagles RFC will be looking to make it another hard day in the office for the Manila Nomads

MANILA, PHILIPPINES –  Tribalism at its best, two of the most established Rugby clubs in the Philippines went head-to-head in Round 1 of the SPI 15s Premiership, with one team showcasing their status to be recognised.

The Eagles RFC, formerly the Alabang Eagles, proved too strong for the fighting Manila Nomads in the first round of the series, however the men from Manila, showed signs of strength, and will be looking for redemption in Round 2 of the Premiership.

The Nomads, current 2017 premiers fell heavily during round one of the 2018 season to their rivals, Eagles RFC.  The Eagles have stamped their mark early, showing they are out to regain the domestic crown, beating the Nomads comfortably 51-8.

“Round two this weekend will be interesting, the Nomads deep down know they have a stronger team than usual, with some new faces in their squad, it may take a game or two before they hit their strides, it’s always a fierce battle. The teams respect each other, however on the field, it’s all about club culture and tribalism” Jovan Masalunga from Philippine Rugby shared.

Lyndon Adlao of Eagles RFC will be looking for another strong performance in the U19s Division

Gabriel Hoejskovg of SKF Mavericks, promising youth development player

Katrina Andrews of Eagles RFC taking on the Makati Chiefs

To open this weekend’s fixtures the U19s Colts Division will see the Santos Knight Frank (SKF) Mavericks and the Eagles RFC face off in another contestable series. The first round went down to the wire, with the Eagles coming out on top 20 points to 15. The division focuses on developing youth talent and preparing the players for their international matches against Hong Kong in August and the Asia Rugby Championships held later in December.

“Positive signs for youth Rugby in the Philippines, the more fixtures these players play in the domestic season, the better their improvement. It’s great to see the best youth players at this level play for their clubs, once they graduate here, they can look to move to the Men’s division” Jake Letts shared.
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Round two of the 2018 SPI 15s Rugby Premiership kicks off this Saturday 10th March at 12.30pm at Southern Plains, Canlubang, Laguna. Philippine Rugby will feature a Juniors Touch Rugby Festival with a Super Hero theme day from 9:00am. Followed by an U19s match, a women’s exhibition match between the top women’s players in Luzon from the Makati Chiefs, the SKF Mavericks and the Eagles RFC, and lastly, the main game scheduled for 4:00pm with the Manila Nomads taking on the Eagles RFC in the Premiership. Entry is free. ​