The Cobras embarked on Vietjet on 30th August to play in the Amora Hotels & Resorts Danang International Dimbulla Rugby 11s Tournament hosted by the Da Nang Guerilla Rugby Club. This is the 6th tour and tournaments for Cobras Rugby this year which is a great acheivement in its self. Esco Beach Club was the venue for the welcome party with teams mingling, old friendships resumed and new ones begun.
On match day the first order of the day was taking on our friends from the Hanoi Dragons. In a tough encounter against a very strong Dragons team, the Cobras fought hard and went down 20-14 with Wilialuk “Tor” Khatcha and Parit “Ken”Sanwichai touching down.
Wilialuk “Tor” Khatcha was again on the scoreboard as the Cobras narrowly went down to the Saigon Geckos 12-5 in match two.
In group game three against the host team, the Da Nang Guerillas, the Cobras saw more of the ball and scores by Captain Jack McPherson & guest player Tjaart Van Walt saw the Cobras hold on for a fine win 14-7.
The Plate final was against the same team, Da Nang and with injuries and battered bodies after a grueling days play, it was a step too far for the Cobras. Battling hard they were always in the fight with both Parit “Ken”Sanwichai & Captain Jack McPherson again on the scorecard. A try by the Guerillas right at the death broke Cobras hearts as they went down 17-12.
A battered and bruised chairman Dave McRitchie said “It was a fantastic tour and tournament in DaNang Vietnam. It was another well run Dimbulla Rugby 11s tournament in Asia. As a team we continue to improve and compete with the top teams in South East Asia. Congratulation to our friends from Hanoi Dragons Rugby Football Club who won the cup. They are a tough team with a big pack and lots of go forward”
It was very hot and humid conditions which took a toll on all the clubs. We were unlucky taking lots of injuries and lost Samual Lam to a shoulder injury in the first game.
Another great tour, new and old friends and the Cobras continue to drive forward with an unwavering spirit and our heads held high.
Top back for tournament was Wilialuk “Tor” Khatcha, Top forward and absolutly smashing it all weekend was Kiattichai Noptakul. All lads put their hands up with Josh Lim getting an honorable mention. Thanks to Craig Harman and TJ and Chi and all our friends, supporters, and sponsors that have helped us continue to provide touring opportunities across Asia to our Thai players.
Special thanks and much love to all the clubs represented for helping Cobras Rugby grow our own brand and for providing proper rugby brotherhood and support!!! Its special to see local Thai lads representing Chiang Mai & Thailand, abroad!
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