Shades of Lomu in Sam Mataafa’s match-winning performance

An upset win over defending First XV premiers Iona launched Padua’s 2019 campaign but all eyes are on Sam Mataafa after a stunning performance.

AIC rugby clash between Padua College (brown/gold) and Iona College (black/white) — SAM MATAAFA (with ball)

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Barnstorming flanker Sam Mataafa went from hero to zero and back again as Padua College toppled defending premiers Iona College in a Round 1 boilover.

There were shades of Jonah Lomu in Mataafa’s powerful running as he dotted down early in the second half to put Padua ahead 14-5.

But a trip to the sin bin six minutes later after repeated ruck infringements almost let Iona slip back into the contest with opposite number Will Markham scoring to tighten the gap at 14-10.

Padua flanker Sam Mataafa dives over during the Round 1 AIC Rugby clash between Padua and Iona. Picture: Supplied

Poasi Manu charges for the line.

Padua gave themselves extra breathing room with a penalty goal from the ensuing kick-off before greasy conditions and poor handling in contact saw the half deteriorate into a set piece battle.

Both sides traded tightheads as the clock ticked down but the returning Mataafa would have the last laugh, shrugging off three Iona defenders to slam down the defining try with four minutes to play.

The 14-point margin would irk Iona, who fought manfully and led for much of the opening half despite the absence of star playmaker Max Plath.

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Winger Blake White’s early chip-and-regather try in the driving rain sent Davine Oval into raptures while centre Charlie Kwock Sun Barker and lock Adrian Mastromichele made plenty of metres.

Yet a more assured kicking game and the back row trio of Mataafa, Josh Toohey and Paosi Manu proved the difference for Padua with Toohey’s defence a standout, particularly in the first half.

Padua alumni Paul “Fatty” Vautin enjoyed the victory, recalling a few similar games during his time in the brown and gold.

“I remember we were a rugby union school but we turned to rugby league when I was in grade 11. We had some great games against Iona and Kedron — they were really tough sides,” he said.

Padua coach Glen Dodds said he was pleased to grind out a win in his first game.

OTHER ROUND 1 MATCH REPORTS

St Laurence’s College win the AIC rugby First XV season opener against brave St Patrick’s College

Marist College Ashgrove dominate St Peters Lutheran College

SCOREBOARD

PADUA COLLEGE 24 (S Mataafa 2, T Rogers tries; P Lambert 3 conv; P Lambert 1 pens) d IONA COLLEGE 10 (B White, W Markham tries)