In a game of contrasting styles, the visiting NYK “Yusen Buffaloes” Rugby Football Club of Japan gored Pattaya Panthers 40–14 at the Horseshoe Point on Sunday, November 1.
After watching the professionals play on Saturday night in the Rugby World Cup final and then seeing the generosity of All Black’s Sony Bill Williams, the Panthers decided to go one better, gifting the game instead of a medal (well that’s the excuse). Others might say the Buffaloes outran the Panthers but why let the truth get in the way of a good story.
Pattaya Panthers (left) battle to halt the rolling maul of the Yusen Buffaloes during their international friendly match at Horseshoe Point Resort in Pattaya, Sunday, November 1.
Agreeing to an abbreviated form of the game, three ten minute thirds of 10’s rugby were played and after seeing the imposing Panthers’ forward pack, the Yusen guys appeared a bit worried. Looking the part is almost as good as playing the part – right? However, once the game got started, the intimidation ruse was uncovered. Using speed, agility, and organization the Buffaloes stomped their presence on the match with two quick tries by Yanachi and Keidi.
Panthers held their own with ‘Big’ Bernard just being caught on a clear run to the try line and with no support runners – exemplifying why there is no adjective for a group of Panthers. Big guys can run too is his new slogan.
Rolling substitutes have did add some numerical challenge to the game. Brawn and brains are required in rugby, and the Buffaloes had both. Mass changes did affect the Panthers settling into a game plan – do the simple things well. Yusen’s deep kicking kept the Panthers in their own half most of the time and their quick upward defensive line, low tackles, and discipline forced errors from the home team. Motohashi and Yanachi kept the scoreboard ticking over for the Buffaloes with a try each.
Panthers and Buffaloes go head to head in the scrum.
The Panthers did show that they were a rugby team with a try worthy of professionals: Collecting the ball on their 22-yard line, a quick dart by Ben led to a maul that moved the ball forward. With Yusen committing plays to slow the maul down, gaps began appearing. Breaking from the maul Augustin led the charge supported by Ben and Chris on the inside and Mario on the outside. The Buffaloes racing tackles did slow the attack but could not stop Chris from scoring the Panthers’ second try.
The third segment of the game was chaotic for the Panthers but not for the Buffaloes. Not having time to settle into a rhythm helped the visitors to another quick try by Kosehikari. Finally, the Yusen game plan was revealed – do not let the Panthers settle down.
Ball retention then became the Panthers objective, which they managed to some degree. However the Buffaloes had their tails up and the wind at their backs and they kept charging. Using their superior size, the Panthers forwards tried to recycle the ball and make it hard for their opponents but the nimble Japanese players were still able to turn over possession and record a last play try by Keidi.
Some of the more entertaining moments included a Buffalo player dropping the ball while crossing the try line, but then the pass was probably a bit forward; one of the Panthers players seeking medical assistance from the Yusen’s cute female medic; Bernard’s running in a try and gasping for breath; Phil’s five-minute appearance that lasted at least twenty; and most not noticing the last conversion was missed because they were cheering the end of the game.
The Buffaloes were wonderful guests. Despite the contrast (organized vs. disorganized, homogeneous skill level vs. heterogeneous abilities, proper game notes vs. an approximation, young vs. a lot older, fit vs. beer-readied, focused vs. well we were wondering, …) the game was played in good spirits, and everyone had a wonderful time.
Thanks to the sponsors NYK and others for organizing a truly wonderful game and tour. Panthers wait for the return game in Japan.
