Australian Army rugby teams win double-header

A torrential downpour in Brisbane did nothing to dampen the intensity of play as the Australian and New Zealand Army rugby teams faced off in a double-header test match in Brisbane last month.

Close mates off the pitch and fierce rivals on it, the two armies share a long history and a deep connection through service. But when it comes to rugby, there’s nothing quite like beating the Kiwis on home soil. 

The Australian men’s and women’s teams secured victories over their New Zealand counterparts at Norths Rugby Club, Brisbane.

The women claimed a 23-12 win before the men completed the double with a commanding 43-3 victory.

For the men, it was a drought-breaking result 33 years in the making.

Head men’s coach CPL Shane Gibbs said coaching the men’s team had been a career highlight.  

“The camaraderie, professionalism and buy-in from the players was first class. To get the win over New Zealand Army makes it even more special,” CPL Gibbs said. 

“I'd also like to thank the Kiwi team for their company throughout the week. There is a lot of mutual respect between both teams, and we're already looking forward to hopefully touring New Zealand and doing it all again in the near future.”

The Australian men’s number eight, CAPT Nicholas Jenkins, identified a crucial defensive period as the turning point.

“The 10 minutes we spent defending our line showed real grit and determination. I remember that defensive effort as the real turning point for the game,” he said.

Despite the rivalry, he recognised the importance of the relationship between the two nations.

“The Australian and New Zealand relationship is fundamental to our history and future as a nation, and nothing strengthens that bond like going to battle with each other on the rugby field,” CAPT Jenkins said.

The occasion also carried a responsibility to represent those who had worn the jersey before them.

Australian women’s number 10, PTE Leyla Meena, reflected on what it meant to represent the Army on the international stage.

“Whether on the rugby field or in uniform, we are part of something bigger than ourselves, and we have a responsibility to represent those who came before us with pride and respect,” she said.

“I sincerely hope this is the beginning of a longstanding tradition for Army Rugby … and that this inaugural match helps pave the way for future teams to experience the same opportunity.”

Head women's coach WO2 Kris Stafford said she was proud of how the team withstood sustained pressure from a determined New Zealand outfit.

“Our defence was put to the test, but the girls dug deep and pushed the Kiwis to the limit. We stuck to our defensive policy, which I feel was the difference in the end,” WO2 Stafford said.

“To look back in the future and say I was part of this group will be a highlight of my Army Rugby career.”

Few understood the significance of the wins better than Murray Harley. 

Mr Harley played loose head prop in the 1993 Australian Army side that last defeated New Zealand. The retired officer went on to play for the ACT Brumbies and has represented Army, Services, Queensland Country and the Canberra Kookaburras. He continues to contribute to the game through coaching and mentoring. 

After the match, he had the honour of presenting ties to players receiving their first caps.

“I told them how proud the Australian Army Rugby Old Leopards in attendance and across the country would be of their performance,” Mr Harley said.

 “It means the world to former Australian Army players because, unlike the Bledisloe Cup, we don’t get to play each other often.”

He believes the value of Army Rugby extends beyond the field.

“In my opinion, Army Rugby equals retention,” Mr Harley said.