The extraordinary skills of Fiji rugby were on show on Day 1 of the 6th Masters 10s

The sixth edition of the Friends of Rugby’s Masters 10s produces a series of high quality tries and tremendous breakaways

The Jabiru Bushratz and Casuarina Cougar Old Boys come to grips in a round-robin game the Old Boys won 17-10. Picture: Friends Of Rugby

FIJIAN rugby reigned supreme on Day 1 of the Masters 10s tournament at Marrara’s Rugby Park.

The Redwings dominated the highly competitive Men’s Division 1 competition, winning their qualifying matches in convincing fashion.

Comprising Darwin locals and a handful of recruits, the Redwings beat Brisbane side Wynnum Bugs 26-10 in their first outing in an early display of fast, running rugby.

A 17-7 win over the Sydney Nadi Oldies followed in what Masters co-ordinator Bruce Kennon described as an outstanding display by both sides.

A comprehensive 26-0 dismissal of the Jabiru Bushratz — with three Ilett brothers wearing the traditional black and green strip of the Bushratz — completed their afternoon’s work.

“They are looking the favourites at the moment,’’ Kennon told the Sunday Territorian.

“There has been some attractive tries scored and the Ilett brothers, Jarred, Ryan and Cameron, have displayed some intricate kick passes for the Bushratz.’’

Much interest has centred on the Australian deaf sides in Darwin for the two-day tournament.

Their men’s and women’s sides are making their first trip to the Top End to contest the Darwin Masters and promote their game to a wider Territory audience.

The first group of Australian deaf rugby union players formed a squad in 2001, playing against New Zealand at Eastwood in New South Wales and four years later touring the Land of the Long White Cloud.

Deaf Rugby Australia was formed as an official organisation in 2011.

Day 2 of the Masters kicks off at 10am today with the final round of qualifying before the serious stuff of finals.

The Swampies Women and the Quiet Ragers will be on show on Oval No.1.

The open women’s final is scheduled for 4pm before the men run out at 5pm.