9 January 2008
Graham Croker
Sydney University Lions’ preparation for the 2008 National League suffered a slight setback when they suffered an 11-9 defeat at the hands of the Drummoyne Devils in the final of the 2007-08 Metropolitan Cup.
The Lions, who have won seven of the past 10 Sydney summer competitions and were the defending Metropolitan Cup premiers, held a one-goal lead going into the final term against Drummoyne at the Ryde Aquatic Centre.
But a committed defensive effort from the Devils and some fine goal-keeping from John Hahn saw them clinch their first Sydney premiership since 1913.
The Lions held sway in opening term and led 4-1 at the first break. But they went scoreless in the second term as the Devils fought back to trail 4-3 at the main break.
The combatants scored four goals apiece in the third term before Drummoyne grabbed the lead mid-way through the fourth quarter to take the title.
Sydney University will open their National Water Polo League season with a game against Wests Magpies at Ashfield at 2pm on January 26, followed by a game against the University of New South Wales at UNSW at 6pm.
Meanwhile, the Drummoyne Devils will make their NWPL debut against Wests Magpies on January 28.
Drummoyne Devils 11 (Dean Semmens 3, Igor Bosnic 3, Grant Richardson 2, Samuelle Avallone 2, Mitchell Emery 1) d Sydney University 9 (Trent Franklin 3, Ben Turner 3, Tom Woudwyk 2, Scott Nicholson 1) at Ryde Aquatic Centre.