Playing two 40 minute halves of 15-a-side rugby it was to be a test of endurance and stamina in the growing heat with a Bali team that featured nine first-timers and a UNJ team with an average age of 20.

Bali started the game at a furious pace eager to put six weeks of training into practice. The Bali Chili’s scored four tries with debutantes Grant and Jimi both crossing the line, before UNJ answered with a try of their own by David on the 29th minute. A further drop goal saw UNJ finish the half strongly.

Bali opened the second half with an early try when Geoff crashed over the line. UNJ struck back almost immediately with a try by Andre which was skillfully converted from the sideline by Nanda. The sun’s heat intensified and the play slowed but when the opportunity was presented Bali scored. Kieran scoring a double and Ricardo ran through three or four tacklers to score the try of the game.

In the end Bali scored nine tries with five conversions to UNJ’s two tries, one conversion, a drop goal and three penalties to leave the score 55-24 in Bali’s favour to take out the inaugural “Bali Island Cup”. Following the match all the players mingled together, enjoyed a drink or two and went for a swim at the nearby Jimbaran Beach. Presentation and pizzas were later devoured that evening in Kuta. Nanda from UNJ was awarded the Best Player.

Yudi from UNJ and Faiz from Bali Rugby affirmed they will look to make the Bali Island Cup a regular feature on their respective playing calenders.