Stars shine on the Rising Sun

The USA Tomahawks soundly defeated the Japan Samurais by 78-6 in Philadelphia in what was the third meeting between the two nations.The Tomahawks outsized and overpowered a gritty and determined Samurais squad that may have suffered from the effects of travel and balmy conditions in a game that featured some outstanding ballwork from the home team.

With a halftime lead of 44-0 the Tomahawks were able to give opportunities to a couple of debutants who seized the moment with both hands, none more so that dynamic New Jersey Sharks backrower Fred Koniecki.

Big Fred thrilled the locals with some barnstorming runs that led to his first try in international Rugby League. Marcus Vassilakopoulos showed his class throughout the match bagging three tries and creating numerous others with sure hands, deft footwork, and classy direction around the field.

The Samurais tried vailantly throughout the match and were unlucky not to score a couple times with blown chances in the first half that looked to lead to certain tries. Upfront the Tomahawks were way too powerful through debutant David Faimanifo continually making yards, and Danny Bull enjoying the switch to the backrow.

Mike Mulvihill continues to prove his value to the squad with his sound play and radar like goal kicking missing only one shot at goal.

The match was a great sign of the improvement developed at the international level by the Tomahawks, and the commitment to promoting players from the AMNRL club competition.

The AMNRL look forward to retruning to Furey Field for future matches and enjoyed the great turnout of local league fans and appreciated the support of Township President and Commisioner Tom Ferro, and the Board of Upper Chichester Municipal Council.

Photographs supplied by Krista Grigg (D.C. Slayers Photographer)

USA 78 vs Japan 6
Game Date: 6/27/03
Game Time: 6pm
Game Venue: Furey Field, Upper Chichester, PA
Referee: Ryan McGough
Half Time: 40 - 0
Tomahawks Try Scorers: Marcus Vassilakopoulos 3, Danny Bull 2, Ryan Blake 2, Jeff Preston 2, Kazoo Seto 1, Rich Portale 1, Martin O'Donoghue 1, Shayne Mains 1, Fred Konicecki 1, Carl Barr 1, Christian Rahui 1
Tomahawks Goals: Mike Mulvihill 7
Samurais Try Scorer: Michael Walker 1,
Samurais Goals: ? 1

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