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| Muntinlupa's boys rugby team takes a huddle. |
By Ivan Saldajeno
CEBU--Muntinlupa succeeded in defending its boys' title, while Davao City put a heartbreaking end to Cebu City's unbeaten run in the girls division in the Batang Pinoy rugby competitions at the Cebu City Sports Complex over the weekend.
Muntinlupa, coached by former Volcano Arlo Abona, leaned on two second half tries to repulse Cebu City, 3-1, in the boys' final.
Muntinlupa actually gave up the first try to Cebu City but scored the last three including the two second half touchdowns to win back-to-back boys titles.
Meanwhile, Davao City stunned Cebu City, 3-2, in the girls final.
The host team entered the championship game in the distaff side as the favorite after sweeping all of its previous matches.
But the visiting side pulled an early stunner by drawing first blood in the contest.
Both teams still played tight rugby 7's in the first half, ending up with a 2-2 deadlock at the intermission.
But the small-ball game of Davao City worked wonder in the second half as the team leaned on its speed and passing accuracy to score the game-winning try, ending Cebu City's hopes of completing the sweep.
Muntinlupa, Cebu, and Davao have been greatly benefited by the grassroots programs organized by the PRFU together with the PSC.
Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno
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