On a crisp Friday night at Starfire Stadium, fans were treated to an electric showdown between the Seattle Seawolves and RFCLA, ending in a dramatic 26-26 draw that saw both teams walk away with a bonus point — but neither with the victory they so desperately sought as the playoff race intensifies.
The Seawolves struck first and early, Duncan Matthews crossing the line within the opening three minutes, and quickly followed up with another try by Dewald Koetz before the hydration break to set the pace early.
But RFCLA showed their grit, responding with two converted tries of their own to level the score 14-14 at halftime. Both teams were clinical off the tee, maintaining 100% conversion rates, however Seawolves Iona missed a crucial 3 point penalty kick just before the end of the first half.
The second half opened with LA collecting two yellow cards, leaving them vulnerable and Seattle took advantage with Malacchi Esdale weaving through to score a try of his own, regaining the lead midway through the second period.
With RFCLA back at full strength with 15 men on the field they scored another try of their own, before Divan Rossouw crossed the while line bringing the Seawolves back in the lead at the 70th minute. RFCLA refused to be outdone, and Captain Jason Damm scored a dramatic try in the 79th minute. Both sides missed their final conversion attempts, locking the score at 26-26 as the final whistle blew. Standout performances lit up the pitch.
Fly-half Rodney Iona not only elevated his kicking success rate the night but also denied a crucial RFCLA try with a brilliant defensive kick — a play that led to a heavy collision with RFCLA captain Jason Damm.
Despite the draw, both teams earned a valuable bonus point for scoring four tries. RFCLA remains fourth in the Western Conference, clinging to a playoff spot, while the Seawolves continue their uphill climb from the bottom of the standings with six critical games remaining.
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