HMS Prince of Wales Light Up Dempsey Field

PWLS RFC maintained their form from their previous game in a closely fought match against Singapore Cricket Club Rugby Team in the Ship’s recent port visit to Singapore. Under the floodlights of Dempsey Field, the team composed of both permanent Ship’s company and embarked air wings held on for a 7 - 10 win.

A fixture steeped in naval history where the hosts put a long-held trophy first awarded back in 1852 by a visiting naval vessel on the line in what was set to be a challenging game for both sides with the humid conditions under the lights. The match was played in three 25-minute periods, enabling extensive player involvement as the 40-man squad was divided into three teams.

The game started off as a close encounter with Singapore enjoying possession for the most part, but the defence of PWLS stood firm and denied the hosts an early try with a ball held up over the line. A crucial turnover in favour of PWLS allowed the team to build an attacking phase, with the backs finding an edge and breaking down the left-hand side. They came tantalisingly close, but a series of penalties halted their progress. Infractions from the hosts slowed PWLS progress but did set up an opportunity in front of the post where the decision was made to take the points available. A decision that would prove vital later in the game.

The second third saw plenty of changes after the strong effort in the opening. The second third was like the first in terms of fairly even possession and penalties for both sides dictating field position. Singapore came of better from a string of penalties which resulted in them receiving a penalty try to take the score to 7 - 3. PWLS responded almost immediately scoring a well worked try after a quick turn over from the kick-off. 2 strong carries by the forwards created the space for the backs to take advantage of the space leading to a try being scored out wide. The successful conversion allowed PWLS to reclaim the lead on the stroke of the whistle to end the third 7 – 10.

In the final third, both teams fought hard to add to the scoreboard, creating several near chances at both ends. However, strong defensive efforts ensured the scoreline remained unchanged until the final whistle.

A huge thank you from PWLS to Singapore Cricket Club for hosting both Men’s and Women’s matches, and we wish them every success with the upcoming season and cup competitions.

PWLS has multiple fixtures planned over the coming deployment, making use of the flight deck and judo gyms to maintain a solid training regime which will help make steady progress towards the next port visit in Darwin.

Images by Dexter Chua