PENAFLOR POWERS SHARKS WITH FINAL-SECOND TRY

By Shania Bulala

Week 4 of rugby action kicked off on Saturday at the JFK Ramsey Field, where the third-seeded Simon Sanchez Sharks staged a dramatic comeback to secure a 19-14 victory over the second-seeded Southern Dolphins in the girls varsity division of the ISA rugby league.

Doriana Penaflor played a pivotal role for the Sharks, scoring the winning try in the last 20 seconds of the game. “I wouldn’t have done it without my team. I love my team, and this game is all about teamwork,” said Penaflor. In total, she contributed two tries and one conversion.

Teammate Rozlyn Mendiola also added one try, and Plumeria Redilla contributed one conversion for the Sharks.

FIRST HALF

The Dolphins wasted no time asserting themselves on offense. Dolphins standout Sky Nangauta set the tone early by scoring the first try of the game and successfully converting it, giving the Dolphins a quick 7-0 lead.

Southern’s defense was formidable, applying heavy pressure on the Sharks’ and making it difficult for them to gain yardage. The Sharks struggled to find openings, with their attempts to move closer to the try zone being repeatedly shut down by the Dolphins’ defensive line. Sanchez’s offense worked tirelessly to gain momentum.

Despite the challenge, the Sharks refused to back down, making offensive gains by using good passing and strategic plays. Just before halftime, Penaflor found an opening by the sideline and quickly powered her way into the try zone. Though the conversion attempt was unsuccessful, the Sharks cut the deficit to 7-5 heading into halftime.

SECOND HALF

Following the break, the Dolphins continued to show their dominance with Bonita Taijeron scoring another try for her team, which was then followed by a successful conversion from Nangauta. This brought the Dolphins’ lead to 14-5.

The Sharks intensified their efforts, displaying a renewed sense of aggression on offense. Rozlyn Mendiola provided a much-needed spark for the Sharks with a powerful breakaway play. She ran past multiple defenders before placing the ball down in the try zone. Teammate Plumeria Redilla followed by kicking a successful conversion. Mendiola’s well-fought try brought the Sharks within striking distance as they narrowed the gap to 14-12.

As the game neared its final moments, the Dolphins fought hard to hold onto their narrow lead. Both teams exchanged possession in a tense back-and-forth battle.

With just 20 seconds left on the clock, the Sharks found one last opportunity to strike. Penaflor stepped up once more as she broke through the defensive line, shrugging off defenders to score the winning try. She followed up with a successful conversion, sealing an unforgettable 19-14 comeback victory for the Sharks.

“It was hard to read the gaps, especially when tired. But, if you see it, you just have to go for it,” said Penaflor. “I am so proud of myself. But most importantly, I’m proud of this team.”

The Sharks victory highlights their determination to finish every game strong and that they fight until the final whistle. With this crucial win, Simon Sanchez strengthened their position in the ISA rugby league. Next week, they will move on to play the number one Academy Cougars at the George Washington field at noon.

Cougars Remain Undefeated

The Cougars extended their winning streak after defeating the Okkodo Bulldogs in their first match of the day and the Dolphins in their second. The Academy Cougars will enter week five undefeated (11-0) and as the clear favorites in the girls varsity division.