SMS Australia leave it late to beat The Fatties

SMS Australia had to dig deep against physical opposition to secure a hard fought win. Having taken an early 2-0 lead SMS soon found themselves pegged back to 2-2 against The Fatties who, at best, could be described as 'very enthusiastic'. With a referee who had little control over the game, SMS lost their composure and rhythm, and soon lost a player, as Tim John succumbed to an ankle injury which is likely to rule him out for the next four weeks. In the second half, SMS found themselves trailing 3-7 with just over 6 minutes remaining. Some resolute defending plus accurate passing saw the start of the fightback as SMS, against the odds, started to score their way back into the game. As the equaliser went in with just under 2 minutes remaining, The Fatties were on the back foot, and SMS completed an unlikely victory as the ball trickled over the line with the clock showing just 30 seconds until full time. With league leaders, Froths, not playing tonight, SMS moved to the top of the league having played a game extra and now look assured of a third consecutive semi-final appearance.

Next week will see a replay of last season's Grand Final as SMS take on current champions, the Old Poms.