The Swannies manage to hold out HMAS Sydney in a very close encounter and remain undefeated in the series.

Last night, in seriously fading light, the Vietnam Swans managed to hold out an incredibly determined HMAS Sydney to become eventual winners 7. 12 (54) to 6. 7. (43).

The Swannies had plenty of scoring shots but were wasting opportunities which was keeping the game wide open.

As the game went on, the intensity levels increased. The last quarter, with the game in the balance, was relentless with players from both sides putting their bodies on the line trying to give their respective team the edge as the final siren loomed.

But finally, it was the Vietnam Swans who managed to prevail and remain undefeated in the series against the Royal Australian Navy with a game score of 4:0.

Presentations were held at the ground. Afterwards, HMAS Sydney’s Commanding Officer, Luke Charles-Jones, asked whether it might be possible to grab the match banner as a momento of the occasion to hang up on the ship.

No such thing as a free lunch so we offered them the banner on condition that they send through a photo for our website.

How good are the Rossco banners?? Ah McRae, you’ve done it again!

Then it was off to the rooftop of the Spotted Cow for the after match function. Inevitably, there was a boat race which was won by the Navy. They said it was the only competition they wanted to win. We replied it was the only competition we didn’t care about.

How good is the 5th Phoenix Perpetual Cup going to be? Possibly against HMAS Sydney again next year – in Danang.

Thank you to HMAS Sydney for a fantastic game and evening. Congratulations to the Vietnam Swans.

More to follow.