WFR News
VIKINGS UNLEASH EIGHT-TRY ONSLAUGHT, GRIZZLIES MAUL LUMBERJACKS AND PIONEERS SOAR!
2026-10-31 11:56:37
🏉 WFR NEWS XXXI
CONFERENCE ONE — ROUND NINE REVIEW
VIKINGS UNLEASH EIGHT-TRY ONSLAUGHT, GRIZZLIES MAUL LUMBERJACKS AND PIONEERS SOAR!
HAWKE'S BAY SILENCE TOKYO, SCOTLAND'S CANNON FIRE SIX AND TAUPO'S CAPTAIN LEADS A STUNNING COMEBACK!
Round Nine of World Fantasy Rugby XXXI Conference One produced another spectacular weekend of rugby as the competition entered the final stages of its regular season.
Six matches delivered 348 points and 56 tries, with several clubs producing outstanding attacking performances.
Central Vikings stole the headlines with a devastating 52–7 demolition of Buenos Aires Bombers, scoring eight tries in a remarkable display of attacking rugby.
Californian Grizzlies were equally impressive, overpowering BC Lumberjacks 54–22, while Peninsula Pioneers delivered a commanding 34–14 victory over Santiago Condors.
Edinburgh Cannon and Bordeaux Les Damiers produced a ten-try thriller in Scotland, Taupo Toa recovered from an early deficit to defeat Paris Titans, and Hawke's Bay Magpies delivered a disciplined defensive performance to defeat Tokyo Shoguns.
With only two regular-season rounds remaining, the pressure is mounting across Conference One!
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🏆 ROUND NINE — OFFICIAL RESULTS
Home Team Score Away Team
Californian Grizzlies 54–22 BC Lumberjacks
Central Vikings 52–7 Buenos Aires Bombers
Edinburgh Cannon 41–31 Bordeaux Les Damiers
Peninsula Pioneers 34–14 Santiago Condors
Taupo Toa 32–24 Paris Titans
Tokyo Shoguns 7–24 Hawke's Bay Magpies
Five home victories and one away victory highlighted a round dominated by powerful home performances.
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⚔️ VIKINGS DESTROY BOMBERS IN EIGHT-TRY MASTERCLASS!
Central Vikings 52–7 Buenos Aires Bombers
Attendance: 13,800 | Halftime: 26–7
Central Vikings produced the most dominant performance of Round Nine, overwhelming Buenos Aires Bombers 52–7 in a devastating eight-try display.
The Vikings were simply unstoppable, controlling possession, territory and attacking opportunities throughout the contest.
Damian McKenzie opened the scoring with a penalty in the 10th minute.
Three minutes later, scrumhalf Cortez Ratima produced a moment of individual brilliance, landing a drop goal to extend the advantage to 6–0.
Buenos Aires briefly responded when Joaquin Oviedo crossed in the 20th minute, with Santiago Chocobares converting to give the Bombers a 7–6 lead.
But that was as good as it would get for the visitors.
THE VIKINGS TAKE CONTROL
Sam Smith crossed in the 23rd minute, restoring the Vikings' advantage.
Mataitini Feke added another try six minutes later before Anton Lienert-Brown crossed in the 35th minute.
Captain Sam Cane then delivered the fourth try of the half in the 38th minute.
By halftime, Central Vikings had established a commanding 26–7 advantage.
Buenos Aires had no answer to the relentless attacking pressure.
SECOND-HALF DESTRUCTION
The Vikings continued their dominance after the interval.
Ratima crossed in the 44th minute, with McKenzie converting.
Four minutes later, McKenzie scored a try of his own, converting to extend the lead to 40–7.
The Bombers struggled to escape their own half as the Vikings controlled territory.
McKenzie added another try later in the contest, completing his double, before Sam Cane also crossed for a second time.
The final whistle confirmed a spectacular 52–7 victory.
Central Vikings dominated possession with an extraordinary 72.5%, spending 56 minutes in opposition territory.
Buenos Aires managed just one try throughout the contest.
⭐ MATCH HEROES
Damian McKenzie: Two tries, three conversions and a penalty goal — 19 points.
Sam Cane: Two tries and an outstanding captain's performance.
Cortez Ratima: A try and a spectacular drop goal.
Anton Lienert-Brown: Contributed to the first-half scoring blitz.
WFR NEWS VERDICT
A ruthless display from Central Vikings.
Their eight-try performance demonstrated the attacking firepower available within the squad and sent a powerful warning to their Conference One rivals.
THE VIKINGS HAVE ARRIVED — AND THEY ARE NOT TAKING PRISONERS!
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🐻 GRIZZLIES MAUL LUMBERJACKS AS POLLARD DELIVERS 29-POINT MASTERCLASS!
Californian Grizzlies 54–22 BC Lumberjacks
Attendance: 31,500 | Halftime: 23–17
Californian Grizzlies produced a sensational attacking performance to overwhelm BC Lumberjacks 54–22.
The home side scored six tries, with Handré Pollard delivering one of the finest individual performances of Round Nine.
The South African international contributed an extraordinary 29 points, scoring a try, converting all six Californian tries and landing four penalty goals.
However, the match was far more competitive during the opening period than the final score suggests.
LUMBERJACKS STRIKE EARLY
Pollard opened the scoring with a penalty in the eighth minute.
BC Lumberjacks responded through Codie Taylor in the 13th minute, taking a 5–3 advantage.
Pollard restored Californian's lead with another penalty before Talon McMullin crossed for BC in the 20th minute.
A third Pollard penalty reduced the deficit to 10–9.
Ewan Webber-Smith then scored for the Lumberjacks in the 29th minute, with Josh Ioane converting.
The visitors led 17–9.
But the Grizzlies responded brilliantly.
Christian Poidevin crossed in the 33rd minute, with Pollard converting.
Four minutes later, Jasper Bowen-Shepherd added another try.
Pollard converted again.
Suddenly, Californian had turned a 17–9 deficit into a 23–17 halftime advantage.
GRIZZLIES UNLEASH THE BEAST
The second half belonged to Californian.
Edwill van der Merwe crossed in the 42nd minute before Pollard scored a try of his own four minutes later.
Both were converted.
Within six minutes, the Grizzlies had extended their lead to 37–17.
Josh Ioane briefly responded for BC Lumberjacks, but the visitors were unable to contain Californian's attacking combinations.
Van der Merwe completed his double before Mark Telea added another try.
Pollard also landed his fourth penalty goal.
The final whistle confirmed a commanding 54–22 victory.
Californian dominated possession with 67.5%, spending 50 minutes in opposition territory.
The victory came at a cost, however, with Marco van Staden suffering an injury expected to sideline him for two to three matches.
⭐ MATCH HEROES
Handré Pollard: 29 points — one try, six conversions and four penalties.
Edwill van der Merwe: Two tries.
Christian Poidevin: Sparked the first-half comeback.
Mark Telea: Added a second-half try.
WFR NEWS VERDICT
An outstanding attacking performance from Californian Grizzlies.
The home side demonstrated tremendous resilience after falling behind during the opening half before completely dominating the second period.
Pollard's 29-point performance was simply exceptional.
GRIZZLIES 54 — LUMBERJACKS 22. CALIFORNIAN SEND A MASSIVE WARNING!
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🏴☠️ PIONEERS POWER PAST CONDORS AS TOM SANDERS CLAIMS HAT-TRICK!
Peninsula Pioneers 34–14 Santiago Condors
Attendance: 37,083 | Halftime: 10–7
Peninsula Pioneers delivered an impressive performance to defeat Santiago Condors 34–14, with flanker Tom Sanders producing a magnificent three-try performance. The visitors made a strong start.
Rodrigo Fernandez crossed in the fifth minute, with Tomas Albornoz converting to give Santiago an early 7–0 advantage.
Peninsula responded through a Romain Ntamack penalty in the 15th minute.
The opening period developed into a competitive encounter, with both teams battling for possession and territory.
However, the Pioneers gradually began to establish control.
SANDERS IGNITES THE PIONEERS
Tom Sanders crossed for his first try in the 27th minute, with Ntamack converting to give Peninsula a 10–7 advantage.
That remained the score at halftime.
The Pioneers emerged from the interval determined to take control.
Sanders crossed again in the 43rd minute, completing his double.
Ntamack converted to extend the advantage to 17–7.
Eight minutes later, Andrew Letiu crossed following a video referee review.
Ntamack converted again.
The Pioneers now led 24–7.
HAT-TRICK HERO!
Sanders completed his hat-trick in the 63rd minute.
Ntamack converted to extend Peninsula's advantage to 31–7.
Santiago refused to surrender, with Alfonso Escobar crossing later in the contest.
However, another Ntamack penalty ensured the Pioneers secured a comfortable 34–14 victory.
Peninsula controlled 56.25% possession and spent 52 minutes in opposition territory.
The result represented another important performance from a club determined to finish the regular season strongly.
Santiago also suffered an injury setback, with Juan Cruz Mallía ruled out for an estimated one to two matches.
⭐ MATCH HEROES
Tom Sanders: Three tries — a sensational hat-trick.
Romain Ntamack: Four conversions and two penalties — 14 points.
Andrew Letiu: Important second-half try.
Quinten Strange: Led the Pioneers through a strong team performance.
WFR NEWS VERDICT
An impressive performance from Peninsula Pioneers.
Tom Sanders' hat-trick was the standout individual contribution, while Ntamack's accurate goal-kicking ensured Peninsula capitalised on their opportunities.
THE PIONEERS ARE CHARGING TOWARDS THE BUSINESS END OF THE SEASON!
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🏴 EDINBURGH CANNON WIN TEN-TRY THRILLER AGAINST BORDEAUX!
Edinburgh Cannon 41–31 Bordeaux Les Damiers
Attendance: 6,864 | Halftime: 26–19
Edinburgh Cannon and Bordeaux Les Damiers produced one of the most entertaining matches of Round Nine, sharing 11 tries and 72 points in a spectacular encounter.
The Scottish club eventually emerged victorious 41–31, but Bordeaux pushed the home side throughout an absorbing contest.
CANNON EXPLODE INTO ACTION
Edinburgh made an extraordinary start.
Josh Taylor crossed in just the second minute, with captain Blair Kinghorn converting.
Three minutes later, Elliott Young added another try, confirmed following a video referee review.
Kinghorn converted again.
Edinburgh led 14–0 after just five minutes.
Max Williamson added a third try in the 11th minute, with Kinghorn converting to extend the advantage to 21–0.
The Cannon appeared unstoppable.
But Bordeaux were far from beaten.
Clément Laporte crossed in the 16th minute, with Aymeric Luc converting.
Donovan Taofifenua added another try in the 30th minute, again converted by Luc.
Suddenly, the visitors had reduced the deficit to 21–14.
Williamson completed his double in the 33rd minute, but Emilien Gailleton responded for Bordeaux just three minutes later.
At halftime, Edinburgh led 26–19.
SECOND-HALF BATTLE
Edinburgh struck immediately after the interval.
Nathan McBeth crossed in the 42nd minute, with Kinghorn converting.
A Kinghorn penalty three minutes later extended the home side's advantage to 36–19.
But Bordeaux continued to fight.
Gailleton completed his double before Sam Byrd crossed for Edinburgh.
Mathis Castro Ferreira added Bordeaux's fifth try as the visitors attempted to close the gap.
However, Edinburgh had done enough.
The final whistle confirmed a thrilling 41–31 victory.
Both sides demonstrated impressive attacking quality.
Bordeaux actually enjoyed slightly more possession, controlling 52.5%, but Edinburgh's ability to convert early opportunities proved decisive.
⭐ MATCH HEROES
Max Williamson: Two tries for Edinburgh.
Blair Kinghorn: Four conversions and a penalty — 11 points.
Emilien Gailleton: Two tries for Bordeaux.
Josh Taylor: Opened the scoring after just two minutes.
Sam Byrd: Important second-half try.
Bordeaux suffered an injury setback when Karsen Talalua was forced from the field, with an estimated recovery period of one to two matches.
WFR NEWS VERDICT
A spectacular attacking contest between two determined Conference One clubs.
Edinburgh's explosive opening period ultimately proved decisive, although Bordeaux deserve credit for their refusal to surrender.
EDINBURGH'S CANNON FIRE SIX — AND BORDEAUX RESPOND WITH FIVE!
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🌋 TAUPO TOA STORM BACK AS CAPTAIN SCOTT SCRAFTON SCORES HAT-TRICK!
Taupo Toa 32–24 Paris Titans
Attendance: 18,800 | Halftime: 13–12
Taupo Toa produced a tremendous comeback to defeat Paris Titans 32–24, with captain Scott Scrafton scoring three tries in an outstanding individual performance.
Paris made a powerful start.
Scrumhalf Leo Coly crossed in the ninth minute to give the visitors an early 5–0 advantage.
Nicolas Depoortere added another try in the 17th minute, with Antoine Hastoy converting.
The Titans led 12–0.
Taupo were under pressure.
But the home side responded brilliantly.
TOA FIGHT BACK
Captain Scott Scrafton sparked the comeback in the 20th minute, crossing for Taupo's opening try.
Te Paea Cook-Savage added a penalty four minutes later, reducing the deficit to 12–8.
Levi Aumua then crossed in the 27th minute.
Suddenly, Taupo had overturned a 12-point deficit to lead 13–12.
That remained the score at halftime.
CAPTAIN LEADS THE CHARGE
Taupo continued their momentum after the interval.
Naitoa Ah Kuoi crossed in the 45th minute, with Cook-Savage converting.
Scrafton added his second try just three minutes later.
Taupo now led 25–12.
Paris responded through captain Antoine Hastoy in the 63rd minute, with Hastoy converting his own try to reduce the deficit to 25–19.
The contest was back in the balance.
But Scrafton was not finished.
In the 69th minute, the Taupo captain crossed for his third try, confirmed following a video referee review.
Cook-Savage converted, extending the advantage to 32–19.
Anthony Jelonch scored a late try for Paris, but Taupo held on to secure a valuable 32–24 victory.
The home side dominated possession with 61.25%, spending 45 minutes in opposition territory.
⭐ MATCH HEROES
Scott Scrafton: Three tries and an inspirational captain's performance.
Te Paea Cook-Savage: Two conversions and a penalty — seven points.
Levi Aumua: Important first-half try.
Naitoa Ah Kuoi: Helped establish Taupo's second-half advantage.
WFR NEWS VERDICT
A tremendous comeback from Taupo Toa.
Trailing 12–0 early, the home side demonstrated resilience and attacking determination.
Captain Scott Scrafton's hat-trick was the defining contribution.
FROM 12–0 DOWN TO 32–24 WINNERS — TAUPO TOA REFUSE TO SURRENDER!
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⚫⚪ HAWKE'S BAY MAGPIES SILENCE TOKYO SHOGUNS WITH DOMINANT DEFENSIVE DISPLAY!
Tokyo Shoguns 7–24 Hawke's Bay Magpies
Attendance: 20,900 | Halftime: 0–21
Hawke's Bay Magpies delivered a commanding away performance to defeat Tokyo Shoguns 24–7.
The New Zealand club controlled the opening half, establishing a 21–0 advantage before Tokyo finally managed to respond.
Cam Millar produced an outstanding performance, contributing 17 points through a try and four successful kicks at goal.
MAGPIES TAKE FLIGHT
Macca Springer opened the scoring in the 12th minute, giving Hawke's Bay a 5–0 advantage.
Millar added a penalty in the 20th minute.
Four minutes later, Alex Dombrandt crossed for the Magpies' second try.
Millar then scored a try of his own in the 27th minute, extending the lead to 18–0.
Another Millar penalty in the 30th minute completed a dominant opening period.
At halftime, Hawke's Bay led 21–0.
Tokyo had struggled to establish any sustained attacking pressure.
SHOGUNS ATTEMPT TO RESPOND
Tokyo emerged with renewed determination after the interval.
Gerhard van den Heever crossed in the 48th minute and converted his own try, reducing the deficit to 21–7.
The Shoguns attempted to build on that momentum.
However, Hawke's Bay's defensive organisation repeatedly denied the home side.
Millar added another penalty later in the second half, extending the advantage to 24–7.
The Magpies controlled 52.5% possession and spent 48 minutes in opposition territory.
Tokyo finished with just one try.
⭐ MATCH HEROES
Cam Millar: One try and three penalties — 14 points.
Macca Springer: Opened the scoring.
Alex Dombrandt: Added an important first-half try.
Hawke's Bay defensive unit: Restricted Tokyo to just seven points.
WFR NEWS VERDICT
An impressive away performance from Hawke's Bay Magpies.
Their first-half dominance and disciplined defensive effort ensured Tokyo Shoguns were unable to establish a meaningful comeback.
THE MAGPIES HAVE LANDED — AND TOKYO HAVE BEEN SILENCED!
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🏆 WFR NEWS — ROUND NINE HONOURS
Award Winner
🏆 Team of the Round Central Vikings — 52–7 over Buenos Aires Bombers
⭐ Player of the Round Handré Pollard — 29 points for Californian Grizzlies
🎩 Hat-Trick Hero Tom Sanders — three tries for Peninsula Pioneers
🌋 Captain's Performance Scott Scrafton — three tries for Taupo Toa
🔥 Highest Team Score Californian Grizzlies — 54 points
💪 Biggest Victory Central Vikings — 45-point winning margin
⚔️ Most Entertaining Match
Edinburgh Cannon 41–31 Bordeaux Les Damiers
🛡️ Defensive Performance Hawke's Bay Magpies — conceded just seven points
🏉 Attacking Performance Central Vikings — eight tries
🌟 Comeback of the Round Taupo Toa — recovered from 12–0 down
🎯 Goal-Kicking Masterclass
Handré Pollard — six conversions and four penalties
👥 Biggest Crowd
Peninsula Pioneers v Santiago Condors — 37,083
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📊 CONFERENCE ONE — ROUND NINE BY THE NUMBERS
Statistic Round Nine
Matches played 6
Total points scored 342
Total tries scored 49
Total attendance 128,947
Average points per match 57.0
Average tries per match 8.17
Average attendance 21,491
Highest team score Californian Grizzlies — 54
Biggest winning margin Central Vikings — 45
Closest match Taupo Toa 32–24 Paris Titans
Most tries by one team Central Vikings — 8
Highest individual points Handré Pollard — 29
Home victories 5
Away victories 1
Hat-tricks 2
Yellow cards 1
Red cards 0
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ROUND NINE ATTENDANCE BREAKDOWN
Match Attendance
Californian Grizzlies v BC Lumberjacks 31,500
Central Vikings v Buenos Aires Bombers 13,800
Edinburgh Cannon v Bordeaux Les Damiers 6,864
Peninsula Pioneers v Santiago Condors 37,083
Taupo Toa v Paris Titans 18,800
Tokyo Shoguns v Hawke's Bay Magpies 20,900
TOTAL 128,947
More than 128,000 supporters attended the six Conference One encounters, with Peninsula Pioneers attracting the largest crowd of the round.
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🔥 CONFERENCE ONE — THE FINAL TWO ROUNDS ARE APPROACHING!
With nine rounds completed, the regular season is rapidly approaching its conclusion.
Only two rounds remain before the final Conference One standings are determined.
Round Nine delivered several important storylines.
⚔️ CENTRAL VIKINGS ARE LOOKING DANGEROUS
Central Vikings produced a devastating attacking performance against Buenos Aires Bombers.
Their eight-try victory demonstrated the quality available throughout the squad.
Damian McKenzie, Sam Cane and Cortez Ratima were outstanding.
If the Vikings can maintain this attacking form, they will be difficult opponents for any Conference One club.
🐻 CALIFORNIAN GRIZZLIES HAVE FOUND THEIR ATTACKING RHYTHM
Californian's 54-point performance against BC Lumberjacks was one of the highlights of Round Nine.
Handré Pollard's extraordinary 29-point contribution demonstrated the influence of an experienced playmaker.
The Grizzlies will be determined to carry that momentum into the final two rounds.
🏴☠️ PIONEERS CONTINUE THEIR CHARGE
Peninsula Pioneers delivered another impressive performance against Santiago Condors.
Tom Sanders' hat-trick was the defining individual contribution, while Romain Ntamack provided excellent support with the boot.
Their victory demonstrated the attacking potential of a club determined to finish the season strongly.
🏴 EDINBURGH SHOW THEIR ATTACKING QUALITY
Edinburgh Cannon produced six tries against Bordeaux Les Damiers.
Their explosive opening period established the foundation for victory.
However, conceding five tries will provide the coaching staff with plenty to consider as the competition approaches its final stages.
🌋 TAUPO TOA DEMONSTRATE THEIR FIGHTING SPIRIT
Taupo's comeback against Paris Titans was one of the most impressive performances of the round.
Trailing 12–0, the home side responded with five tries.
Captain Scott Scrafton led by example with a magnificent hat-trick.
⚫⚪ MAGPIES DELIVER AWAY-DAY SUCCESS
Hawke's Bay Magpies were the only visiting club to secure victory in Round Nine.
Their disciplined performance against Tokyo Shoguns demonstrated the importance of defensive organisation.
The Magpies will be looking to build on that success.
🏉 THE ROAD TO WFR XXXI CONFERENCE ONE GLORY!
The pressure is increasing.
Round Nine demonstrated the unpredictable nature of World Fantasy Rugby.
Central Vikings produced a devastating eight-try performance.
Californian Grizzlies delivered a 54-point attacking masterclass.
Peninsula Pioneers celebrated a hat-trick hero.
Edinburgh Cannon survived an extraordinary eleven-try contest.
Taupo Toa fought back from a 12-point deficit.
And Hawke's Bay Magpies delivered the only away victory of the round.
SIX MATCHES. 49 TRIES. 342 POINTS. 128,947 SUPPORTERS!
WFR NEWS | WORLD FANTASY RUGBY XXXI
Conference One — Official Round Nine Review
World Fantasy Rugby — Where Every Match Matters!
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Editorial correction: The opening headline summary should read 342 points and 49 tries. Also, Cam Millar scored 14 points, not 17, and the Edinburgh–Bordeaux match featured 11 tries, not ten. The official results and statistics tables above reflect the correct totals.
Back to News Centre
CONFERENCE ONE — ROUND NINE REVIEW
VIKINGS UNLEASH EIGHT-TRY ONSLAUGHT, GRIZZLIES MAUL LUMBERJACKS AND PIONEERS SOAR!
HAWKE'S BAY SILENCE TOKYO, SCOTLAND'S CANNON FIRE SIX AND TAUPO'S CAPTAIN LEADS A STUNNING COMEBACK!
Round Nine of World Fantasy Rugby XXXI Conference One produced another spectacular weekend of rugby as the competition entered the final stages of its regular season.
Six matches delivered 348 points and 56 tries, with several clubs producing outstanding attacking performances.
Central Vikings stole the headlines with a devastating 52–7 demolition of Buenos Aires Bombers, scoring eight tries in a remarkable display of attacking rugby.
Californian Grizzlies were equally impressive, overpowering BC Lumberjacks 54–22, while Peninsula Pioneers delivered a commanding 34–14 victory over Santiago Condors.
Edinburgh Cannon and Bordeaux Les Damiers produced a ten-try thriller in Scotland, Taupo Toa recovered from an early deficit to defeat Paris Titans, and Hawke's Bay Magpies delivered a disciplined defensive performance to defeat Tokyo Shoguns.
With only two regular-season rounds remaining, the pressure is mounting across Conference One!
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🏆 ROUND NINE — OFFICIAL RESULTS
Home Team Score Away Team
Californian Grizzlies 54–22 BC Lumberjacks
Central Vikings 52–7 Buenos Aires Bombers
Edinburgh Cannon 41–31 Bordeaux Les Damiers
Peninsula Pioneers 34–14 Santiago Condors
Taupo Toa 32–24 Paris Titans
Tokyo Shoguns 7–24 Hawke's Bay Magpies
Five home victories and one away victory highlighted a round dominated by powerful home performances.
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⚔️ VIKINGS DESTROY BOMBERS IN EIGHT-TRY MASTERCLASS!
Central Vikings 52–7 Buenos Aires Bombers
Attendance: 13,800 | Halftime: 26–7
Central Vikings produced the most dominant performance of Round Nine, overwhelming Buenos Aires Bombers 52–7 in a devastating eight-try display.
The Vikings were simply unstoppable, controlling possession, territory and attacking opportunities throughout the contest.
Damian McKenzie opened the scoring with a penalty in the 10th minute.
Three minutes later, scrumhalf Cortez Ratima produced a moment of individual brilliance, landing a drop goal to extend the advantage to 6–0.
Buenos Aires briefly responded when Joaquin Oviedo crossed in the 20th minute, with Santiago Chocobares converting to give the Bombers a 7–6 lead.
But that was as good as it would get for the visitors.
THE VIKINGS TAKE CONTROL
Sam Smith crossed in the 23rd minute, restoring the Vikings' advantage.
Mataitini Feke added another try six minutes later before Anton Lienert-Brown crossed in the 35th minute.
Captain Sam Cane then delivered the fourth try of the half in the 38th minute.
By halftime, Central Vikings had established a commanding 26–7 advantage.
Buenos Aires had no answer to the relentless attacking pressure.
SECOND-HALF DESTRUCTION
The Vikings continued their dominance after the interval.
Ratima crossed in the 44th minute, with McKenzie converting.
Four minutes later, McKenzie scored a try of his own, converting to extend the lead to 40–7.
The Bombers struggled to escape their own half as the Vikings controlled territory.
McKenzie added another try later in the contest, completing his double, before Sam Cane also crossed for a second time.
The final whistle confirmed a spectacular 52–7 victory.
Central Vikings dominated possession with an extraordinary 72.5%, spending 56 minutes in opposition territory.
Buenos Aires managed just one try throughout the contest.
⭐ MATCH HEROES
Damian McKenzie: Two tries, three conversions and a penalty goal — 19 points.
Sam Cane: Two tries and an outstanding captain's performance.
Cortez Ratima: A try and a spectacular drop goal.
Anton Lienert-Brown: Contributed to the first-half scoring blitz.
WFR NEWS VERDICT
A ruthless display from Central Vikings.
Their eight-try performance demonstrated the attacking firepower available within the squad and sent a powerful warning to their Conference One rivals.
THE VIKINGS HAVE ARRIVED — AND THEY ARE NOT TAKING PRISONERS!
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🐻 GRIZZLIES MAUL LUMBERJACKS AS POLLARD DELIVERS 29-POINT MASTERCLASS!
Californian Grizzlies 54–22 BC Lumberjacks
Attendance: 31,500 | Halftime: 23–17
Californian Grizzlies produced a sensational attacking performance to overwhelm BC Lumberjacks 54–22.
The home side scored six tries, with Handré Pollard delivering one of the finest individual performances of Round Nine.
The South African international contributed an extraordinary 29 points, scoring a try, converting all six Californian tries and landing four penalty goals.
However, the match was far more competitive during the opening period than the final score suggests.
LUMBERJACKS STRIKE EARLY
Pollard opened the scoring with a penalty in the eighth minute.
BC Lumberjacks responded through Codie Taylor in the 13th minute, taking a 5–3 advantage.
Pollard restored Californian's lead with another penalty before Talon McMullin crossed for BC in the 20th minute.
A third Pollard penalty reduced the deficit to 10–9.
Ewan Webber-Smith then scored for the Lumberjacks in the 29th minute, with Josh Ioane converting.
The visitors led 17–9.
But the Grizzlies responded brilliantly.
Christian Poidevin crossed in the 33rd minute, with Pollard converting.
Four minutes later, Jasper Bowen-Shepherd added another try.
Pollard converted again.
Suddenly, Californian had turned a 17–9 deficit into a 23–17 halftime advantage.
GRIZZLIES UNLEASH THE BEAST
The second half belonged to Californian.
Edwill van der Merwe crossed in the 42nd minute before Pollard scored a try of his own four minutes later.
Both were converted.
Within six minutes, the Grizzlies had extended their lead to 37–17.
Josh Ioane briefly responded for BC Lumberjacks, but the visitors were unable to contain Californian's attacking combinations.
Van der Merwe completed his double before Mark Telea added another try.
Pollard also landed his fourth penalty goal.
The final whistle confirmed a commanding 54–22 victory.
Californian dominated possession with 67.5%, spending 50 minutes in opposition territory.
The victory came at a cost, however, with Marco van Staden suffering an injury expected to sideline him for two to three matches.
⭐ MATCH HEROES
Handré Pollard: 29 points — one try, six conversions and four penalties.
Edwill van der Merwe: Two tries.
Christian Poidevin: Sparked the first-half comeback.
Mark Telea: Added a second-half try.
WFR NEWS VERDICT
An outstanding attacking performance from Californian Grizzlies.
The home side demonstrated tremendous resilience after falling behind during the opening half before completely dominating the second period.
Pollard's 29-point performance was simply exceptional.
GRIZZLIES 54 — LUMBERJACKS 22. CALIFORNIAN SEND A MASSIVE WARNING!
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🏴☠️ PIONEERS POWER PAST CONDORS AS TOM SANDERS CLAIMS HAT-TRICK!
Peninsula Pioneers 34–14 Santiago Condors
Attendance: 37,083 | Halftime: 10–7
Peninsula Pioneers delivered an impressive performance to defeat Santiago Condors 34–14, with flanker Tom Sanders producing a magnificent three-try performance. The visitors made a strong start.
Rodrigo Fernandez crossed in the fifth minute, with Tomas Albornoz converting to give Santiago an early 7–0 advantage.
Peninsula responded through a Romain Ntamack penalty in the 15th minute.
The opening period developed into a competitive encounter, with both teams battling for possession and territory.
However, the Pioneers gradually began to establish control.
SANDERS IGNITES THE PIONEERS
Tom Sanders crossed for his first try in the 27th minute, with Ntamack converting to give Peninsula a 10–7 advantage.
That remained the score at halftime.
The Pioneers emerged from the interval determined to take control.
Sanders crossed again in the 43rd minute, completing his double.
Ntamack converted to extend the advantage to 17–7.
Eight minutes later, Andrew Letiu crossed following a video referee review.
Ntamack converted again.
The Pioneers now led 24–7.
HAT-TRICK HERO!
Sanders completed his hat-trick in the 63rd minute.
Ntamack converted to extend Peninsula's advantage to 31–7.
Santiago refused to surrender, with Alfonso Escobar crossing later in the contest.
However, another Ntamack penalty ensured the Pioneers secured a comfortable 34–14 victory.
Peninsula controlled 56.25% possession and spent 52 minutes in opposition territory.
The result represented another important performance from a club determined to finish the regular season strongly.
Santiago also suffered an injury setback, with Juan Cruz Mallía ruled out for an estimated one to two matches.
⭐ MATCH HEROES
Tom Sanders: Three tries — a sensational hat-trick.
Romain Ntamack: Four conversions and two penalties — 14 points.
Andrew Letiu: Important second-half try.
Quinten Strange: Led the Pioneers through a strong team performance.
WFR NEWS VERDICT
An impressive performance from Peninsula Pioneers.
Tom Sanders' hat-trick was the standout individual contribution, while Ntamack's accurate goal-kicking ensured Peninsula capitalised on their opportunities.
THE PIONEERS ARE CHARGING TOWARDS THE BUSINESS END OF THE SEASON!
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🏴 EDINBURGH CANNON WIN TEN-TRY THRILLER AGAINST BORDEAUX!
Edinburgh Cannon 41–31 Bordeaux Les Damiers
Attendance: 6,864 | Halftime: 26–19
Edinburgh Cannon and Bordeaux Les Damiers produced one of the most entertaining matches of Round Nine, sharing 11 tries and 72 points in a spectacular encounter.
The Scottish club eventually emerged victorious 41–31, but Bordeaux pushed the home side throughout an absorbing contest.
CANNON EXPLODE INTO ACTION
Edinburgh made an extraordinary start.
Josh Taylor crossed in just the second minute, with captain Blair Kinghorn converting.
Three minutes later, Elliott Young added another try, confirmed following a video referee review.
Kinghorn converted again.
Edinburgh led 14–0 after just five minutes.
Max Williamson added a third try in the 11th minute, with Kinghorn converting to extend the advantage to 21–0.
The Cannon appeared unstoppable.
But Bordeaux were far from beaten.
Clément Laporte crossed in the 16th minute, with Aymeric Luc converting.
Donovan Taofifenua added another try in the 30th minute, again converted by Luc.
Suddenly, the visitors had reduced the deficit to 21–14.
Williamson completed his double in the 33rd minute, but Emilien Gailleton responded for Bordeaux just three minutes later.
At halftime, Edinburgh led 26–19.
SECOND-HALF BATTLE
Edinburgh struck immediately after the interval.
Nathan McBeth crossed in the 42nd minute, with Kinghorn converting.
A Kinghorn penalty three minutes later extended the home side's advantage to 36–19.
But Bordeaux continued to fight.
Gailleton completed his double before Sam Byrd crossed for Edinburgh.
Mathis Castro Ferreira added Bordeaux's fifth try as the visitors attempted to close the gap.
However, Edinburgh had done enough.
The final whistle confirmed a thrilling 41–31 victory.
Both sides demonstrated impressive attacking quality.
Bordeaux actually enjoyed slightly more possession, controlling 52.5%, but Edinburgh's ability to convert early opportunities proved decisive.
⭐ MATCH HEROES
Max Williamson: Two tries for Edinburgh.
Blair Kinghorn: Four conversions and a penalty — 11 points.
Emilien Gailleton: Two tries for Bordeaux.
Josh Taylor: Opened the scoring after just two minutes.
Sam Byrd: Important second-half try.
Bordeaux suffered an injury setback when Karsen Talalua was forced from the field, with an estimated recovery period of one to two matches.
WFR NEWS VERDICT
A spectacular attacking contest between two determined Conference One clubs.
Edinburgh's explosive opening period ultimately proved decisive, although Bordeaux deserve credit for their refusal to surrender.
EDINBURGH'S CANNON FIRE SIX — AND BORDEAUX RESPOND WITH FIVE!
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🌋 TAUPO TOA STORM BACK AS CAPTAIN SCOTT SCRAFTON SCORES HAT-TRICK!
Taupo Toa 32–24 Paris Titans
Attendance: 18,800 | Halftime: 13–12
Taupo Toa produced a tremendous comeback to defeat Paris Titans 32–24, with captain Scott Scrafton scoring three tries in an outstanding individual performance.
Paris made a powerful start.
Scrumhalf Leo Coly crossed in the ninth minute to give the visitors an early 5–0 advantage.
Nicolas Depoortere added another try in the 17th minute, with Antoine Hastoy converting.
The Titans led 12–0.
Taupo were under pressure.
But the home side responded brilliantly.
TOA FIGHT BACK
Captain Scott Scrafton sparked the comeback in the 20th minute, crossing for Taupo's opening try.
Te Paea Cook-Savage added a penalty four minutes later, reducing the deficit to 12–8.
Levi Aumua then crossed in the 27th minute.
Suddenly, Taupo had overturned a 12-point deficit to lead 13–12.
That remained the score at halftime.
CAPTAIN LEADS THE CHARGE
Taupo continued their momentum after the interval.
Naitoa Ah Kuoi crossed in the 45th minute, with Cook-Savage converting.
Scrafton added his second try just three minutes later.
Taupo now led 25–12.
Paris responded through captain Antoine Hastoy in the 63rd minute, with Hastoy converting his own try to reduce the deficit to 25–19.
The contest was back in the balance.
But Scrafton was not finished.
In the 69th minute, the Taupo captain crossed for his third try, confirmed following a video referee review.
Cook-Savage converted, extending the advantage to 32–19.
Anthony Jelonch scored a late try for Paris, but Taupo held on to secure a valuable 32–24 victory.
The home side dominated possession with 61.25%, spending 45 minutes in opposition territory.
⭐ MATCH HEROES
Scott Scrafton: Three tries and an inspirational captain's performance.
Te Paea Cook-Savage: Two conversions and a penalty — seven points.
Levi Aumua: Important first-half try.
Naitoa Ah Kuoi: Helped establish Taupo's second-half advantage.
WFR NEWS VERDICT
A tremendous comeback from Taupo Toa.
Trailing 12–0 early, the home side demonstrated resilience and attacking determination.
Captain Scott Scrafton's hat-trick was the defining contribution.
FROM 12–0 DOWN TO 32–24 WINNERS — TAUPO TOA REFUSE TO SURRENDER!
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⚫⚪ HAWKE'S BAY MAGPIES SILENCE TOKYO SHOGUNS WITH DOMINANT DEFENSIVE DISPLAY!
Tokyo Shoguns 7–24 Hawke's Bay Magpies
Attendance: 20,900 | Halftime: 0–21
Hawke's Bay Magpies delivered a commanding away performance to defeat Tokyo Shoguns 24–7.
The New Zealand club controlled the opening half, establishing a 21–0 advantage before Tokyo finally managed to respond.
Cam Millar produced an outstanding performance, contributing 17 points through a try and four successful kicks at goal.
MAGPIES TAKE FLIGHT
Macca Springer opened the scoring in the 12th minute, giving Hawke's Bay a 5–0 advantage.
Millar added a penalty in the 20th minute.
Four minutes later, Alex Dombrandt crossed for the Magpies' second try.
Millar then scored a try of his own in the 27th minute, extending the lead to 18–0.
Another Millar penalty in the 30th minute completed a dominant opening period.
At halftime, Hawke's Bay led 21–0.
Tokyo had struggled to establish any sustained attacking pressure.
SHOGUNS ATTEMPT TO RESPOND
Tokyo emerged with renewed determination after the interval.
Gerhard van den Heever crossed in the 48th minute and converted his own try, reducing the deficit to 21–7.
The Shoguns attempted to build on that momentum.
However, Hawke's Bay's defensive organisation repeatedly denied the home side.
Millar added another penalty later in the second half, extending the advantage to 24–7.
The Magpies controlled 52.5% possession and spent 48 minutes in opposition territory.
Tokyo finished with just one try.
⭐ MATCH HEROES
Cam Millar: One try and three penalties — 14 points.
Macca Springer: Opened the scoring.
Alex Dombrandt: Added an important first-half try.
Hawke's Bay defensive unit: Restricted Tokyo to just seven points.
WFR NEWS VERDICT
An impressive away performance from Hawke's Bay Magpies.
Their first-half dominance and disciplined defensive effort ensured Tokyo Shoguns were unable to establish a meaningful comeback.
THE MAGPIES HAVE LANDED — AND TOKYO HAVE BEEN SILENCED!
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🏆 WFR NEWS — ROUND NINE HONOURS
Award Winner
🏆 Team of the Round Central Vikings — 52–7 over Buenos Aires Bombers
⭐ Player of the Round Handré Pollard — 29 points for Californian Grizzlies
🎩 Hat-Trick Hero Tom Sanders — three tries for Peninsula Pioneers
🌋 Captain's Performance Scott Scrafton — three tries for Taupo Toa
🔥 Highest Team Score Californian Grizzlies — 54 points
💪 Biggest Victory Central Vikings — 45-point winning margin
⚔️ Most Entertaining Match
Edinburgh Cannon 41–31 Bordeaux Les Damiers
🛡️ Defensive Performance Hawke's Bay Magpies — conceded just seven points
🏉 Attacking Performance Central Vikings — eight tries
🌟 Comeback of the Round Taupo Toa — recovered from 12–0 down
🎯 Goal-Kicking Masterclass
Handré Pollard — six conversions and four penalties
👥 Biggest Crowd
Peninsula Pioneers v Santiago Condors — 37,083
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📊 CONFERENCE ONE — ROUND NINE BY THE NUMBERS
Statistic Round Nine
Matches played 6
Total points scored 342
Total tries scored 49
Total attendance 128,947
Average points per match 57.0
Average tries per match 8.17
Average attendance 21,491
Highest team score Californian Grizzlies — 54
Biggest winning margin Central Vikings — 45
Closest match Taupo Toa 32–24 Paris Titans
Most tries by one team Central Vikings — 8
Highest individual points Handré Pollard — 29
Home victories 5
Away victories 1
Hat-tricks 2
Yellow cards 1
Red cards 0
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ROUND NINE ATTENDANCE BREAKDOWN
Match Attendance
Californian Grizzlies v BC Lumberjacks 31,500
Central Vikings v Buenos Aires Bombers 13,800
Edinburgh Cannon v Bordeaux Les Damiers 6,864
Peninsula Pioneers v Santiago Condors 37,083
Taupo Toa v Paris Titans 18,800
Tokyo Shoguns v Hawke's Bay Magpies 20,900
TOTAL 128,947
More than 128,000 supporters attended the six Conference One encounters, with Peninsula Pioneers attracting the largest crowd of the round.
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🔥 CONFERENCE ONE — THE FINAL TWO ROUNDS ARE APPROACHING!
With nine rounds completed, the regular season is rapidly approaching its conclusion.
Only two rounds remain before the final Conference One standings are determined.
Round Nine delivered several important storylines.
⚔️ CENTRAL VIKINGS ARE LOOKING DANGEROUS
Central Vikings produced a devastating attacking performance against Buenos Aires Bombers.
Their eight-try victory demonstrated the quality available throughout the squad.
Damian McKenzie, Sam Cane and Cortez Ratima were outstanding.
If the Vikings can maintain this attacking form, they will be difficult opponents for any Conference One club.
🐻 CALIFORNIAN GRIZZLIES HAVE FOUND THEIR ATTACKING RHYTHM
Californian's 54-point performance against BC Lumberjacks was one of the highlights of Round Nine.
Handré Pollard's extraordinary 29-point contribution demonstrated the influence of an experienced playmaker.
The Grizzlies will be determined to carry that momentum into the final two rounds.
🏴☠️ PIONEERS CONTINUE THEIR CHARGE
Peninsula Pioneers delivered another impressive performance against Santiago Condors.
Tom Sanders' hat-trick was the defining individual contribution, while Romain Ntamack provided excellent support with the boot.
Their victory demonstrated the attacking potential of a club determined to finish the season strongly.
🏴 EDINBURGH SHOW THEIR ATTACKING QUALITY
Edinburgh Cannon produced six tries against Bordeaux Les Damiers.
Their explosive opening period established the foundation for victory.
However, conceding five tries will provide the coaching staff with plenty to consider as the competition approaches its final stages.
🌋 TAUPO TOA DEMONSTRATE THEIR FIGHTING SPIRIT
Taupo's comeback against Paris Titans was one of the most impressive performances of the round.
Trailing 12–0, the home side responded with five tries.
Captain Scott Scrafton led by example with a magnificent hat-trick.
⚫⚪ MAGPIES DELIVER AWAY-DAY SUCCESS
Hawke's Bay Magpies were the only visiting club to secure victory in Round Nine.
Their disciplined performance against Tokyo Shoguns demonstrated the importance of defensive organisation.
The Magpies will be looking to build on that success.
🏉 THE ROAD TO WFR XXXI CONFERENCE ONE GLORY!
The pressure is increasing.
Round Nine demonstrated the unpredictable nature of World Fantasy Rugby.
Central Vikings produced a devastating eight-try performance.
Californian Grizzlies delivered a 54-point attacking masterclass.
Peninsula Pioneers celebrated a hat-trick hero.
Edinburgh Cannon survived an extraordinary eleven-try contest.
Taupo Toa fought back from a 12-point deficit.
And Hawke's Bay Magpies delivered the only away victory of the round.
SIX MATCHES. 49 TRIES. 342 POINTS. 128,947 SUPPORTERS!
WFR NEWS | WORLD FANTASY RUGBY XXXI
Conference One — Official Round Nine Review
World Fantasy Rugby — Where Every Match Matters!
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Editorial correction: The opening headline summary should read 342 points and 49 tries. Also, Cam Millar scored 14 points, not 17, and the Edinburgh–Bordeaux match featured 11 tries, not ten. The official results and statistics tables above reflect the correct totals.