University Pirates looking to return to return to winning ways when they take on Darwin Dragons

UNIVERSITY Pirates are striving for a return to the winners’ circle when they take on Darwin Dragons in Round 13 of the Darwin A-grade Rugby Union competition.

Pirates captain Ben Parkes has been in strong form all season. Picture: Glenn Campbell

UNIVERSITY Pirates are striving for a return to the winners’ circle when they take on Darwin Dragons in Round 13 of the Darwin A-grade Rugby Union competition.

Pirates haven’t had the best run since the break, dropping games against Palmerston and South Darwin, and they will be looking to reverse their fortunes against the Dragons.

Player-coach Robbie Butcher was hopeful that a bye week in Round 12 will have allowed his side a reprieve and a return to form.

“We’ve come off a couple of losses, but the bye came
at an opportune time for us, allowing us to refresh and get back into it,” Butcher told the NT News.

“Defence wins games, so we know we need to turn up defensively and turn that around into smart decision-making in attack going forward.”

MORE NT SPORT STORIES

Wallaby legend and Santos ambassador Tim Horan looks to inspire Territory youth

Casuarina Cougars make a statement in beating Darwin Dragons in Round 12 of the Darwin rugby union competition

NT basketball juniors find plethora of oppurtunities down south, inspiring push for Darwin-based NBL1 side

Pirates know they’re in for a forwards battle when they take on Darwin Dragons, a side with plenty of pride in their big pack, which includes Jahmayne Coolwell, Dainel Harnett and Euan McKillop.

But Darwin’s club leaders Drew Tobin and Hirini Murfitt will look to get their own club back on track.

Butcher will look to his captain Ben Parkes to lead from the front and continue his solid run of recent form alongside Wise Sekitoga, while Isaac Taulelei will make his return to the side.

“Games against Dragons have always been tight, close encounters, and this season we’re one win each,”
Butcher said.

“They have a lot to prove themselves, coming off losses of their own.

“So this will be a good, tough match that comes at the right time.

“They’re always strong in the forwards with their big pack and will be looking to Murfitt and Tobin to give them some direction. Our defence has to be on point against them.

“But we will also be looking for our forwards to step up that physicality and match up against them.”

$1 FOR ALL YOUR NEWS? HERE’S HOW: Sign up now to our amazing deal of $1 for 28 days

Meanwhile, Casuarina Cougars will look to climb the table in search of the double chance when they clash against Palmerston Crocs from 5.30pm.