In a showcase of athleticism and determination, the Delbarton Rugby team delivered a stunning performance in their season finale clash against Chaminade on Saturday, May 11. The match, which saw an intense battle unfold, concluded with Delbarton emerging victorious with a commanding 36-17 score, after an equally contested first half that ended in a deadlock at 17-17.
The game began with both teams exhibiting formidable defensive strategies, resulting in a cautious start and a series of knock-ons that momentarily slowed the pace. However, it was the forward pack of Delbarton that began to assert their dominance early on, particularly in the scrums. Led by Captain Alex Estey, the forwards dominated their scrums and even won a few opposing scrums.
Despite the initial challenges and the deadlock at halftime, Delbarton came ready for the second half, displaying a remarkable turnaround in performance. The team showed remarkable discipline, with significantly fewer penalties, allowing them to maintain pressure on their opponents while capitalizing on scoring opportunities.
The second half saw standout performances from several key players, with forwards such as Antonio Conte and Dillon Paul making notable contributions. Conte, in particular, demonstrated his skill with two impressive tries, solidifying his position as a pivotal player in the team's success. Additionally, Luke Eisendhardt, Dillon Paul, and Ronan O'Sullivan each added their names to the scoresheet with tries of their own, showcasing the team's depth and versatility in attack.
One of the defining moments of the match came from August Goyal, whose remarkable kick return saw him cover nearly 80 meters, providing a pivotal momentum shift in favor of Delbarton.
In recognition of his exceptional performance and invaluable contributions to the team's victory, Antonio Conte was rightfully awarded the title of Man of the Match.
As the season drew to a close, Delbarton Rugby celebrated not only a well-deserved victory but also the dedication of their senior class. The senior starters, including Alex Estey, Stephen Carlisle, Vincent Maurizi, Dillon Paul, Ronan O´Sullivan, Aaron Shivas, Ciro Randazzo, Luke Evangelista along with senior contributors James Eck III, Bennet Knesl, William Du, and David Lebowitz.
With the season finale serving as a fitting tribute to their talent and resilience, the Delbarton Rugby team now sets its sights on the 2025 season as the program continues to grow.
