SLRUFC came through a tough group and finals games to snatch the Plate Title from the Outlaws in extra time. Ethan Bond-Williams last gasp try ripped the plate from the opposition sparking celebrations.

Many Thanks to our 7s Sponsors AJ BAKER & Sons who helped make the tour a great success.

Match Report from local Sabah Times

Southern Lions on cloud nine

PLATE WINNERS
28th October, 2013
SANDAKAN: Australia’s Southern Lions are on cloud nine after clinching their first ever international title at the 12th Borneo International Clubs 7s that ended at the Eagles Rugby Club at Bandar Utama, Mile 6 here yesterday.

The Perth-based outfit returned home with the Plate title after a hard fought 19-15 victory over their countrymen – The Outlaws in the final.

Southern Lions sealed their win at the death, courtesy of Ethan Bond Williams’ try, who only celebrated his 18th birthday two weeks ago.

The Outlaws were heading for what could have been a victory before Ethan gave them the final blow.
With only seconds remaining on the clock, The Outlaws, also from Down Under, were leading 15-14 before Ethan sealed their victory with an awesome run from right flank for the last try of the game that sent his teammates into a frenzy as the referee blew for the final whistle soon after the try.

The feat saw them bag the US$1,000 prize money while The Outlaws settled for US$500.
This was the Southern Lions first ever competition.

Team manager Karen Eastwood when met after their stunning win, said: “We are so excited. We never expected this and our three to four months of hard work paid off.”
And Karen said they are determined to come back stronger next year.

“Yes, we will surely want to come back again next year … stronger to challenge a team like the Eagles (Borneo),” said Karen.

On their short stay here, she commented: “It has been excellent. The boys like it here and the organisation was amazing.”

Southern Lions made it into the Plate final after defeating Sabah Eagles 31-0 in the semi-final while The Outlaws edged Malaysian Universities 24-12.

In the Bowl final, RMAF Blackhawks defeated OSCA Warriors 21-12. They received US$300 and US$200 respectively for their feats.

Pally Pirates from Australia thrashed Brunei 55-14 to take the Shield crown.

A Tour report to follow.