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RI downs Cambodia to extend run at A5N
Indonesia's rugby team crushed arch-rival Cambodia 55-3 in the Asian Five Nations Rugby tournament at Pelita Harapan University Sports Stadium in Karawaci, Tangerang, on Saturday
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Indonesia's rugby team crushed arch-rival Cambodia 55-3 in the Asian Five Nations Rugby tournament at Pelita Harapan University Sports Stadium in Karawaci, Tangerang, on Saturday.
The victory means Indonesia remains unbeaten since the team made its international debut last year, when they prevailed over Brunei Darussalam, Laos and Cambodia in a regional rugby division tournament held in Brunei.
The victory was the home team's second at the inaugural Asian Five Nations. Indonesia, known as "the Rhinos", beat Laos 23-11 on Tuesday.
"I'm very proud of what we've achieved today considering that we only had 10 days to prepare for the Cup," Indonesia team captain Bobby Orlando told The Jakarta Post in the post-match interview.
"This year, Cambodia's defense is a bit scrappy compared to last year. Maybe it's because of the absence of most of their expatriate players," the 31-year-old forward said.
Cambodia was humiliated by Laos 35-0 in their opening match.
"But, we found out that the Laotians are more solid now. It was quite tricky for us to beat them," he added.
Another Indonesian player, Kirk Aditya, said he was pleased with the win.
"We managed to enforce our game on the Cambodians. That's why we could win the game," he said.
Bobby said he hoped the sport could become more popular among Indonesians.
"We are still approaching the National Sports Council (KON) to request rugby be put on its sports-to-be-promoted list."
The victory also delighted the watching fans.
"It's great to witness our team win," said Jean Venessa, 22, for whom it was the first time watching a rugby match.
"I think they played better than our national soccer team. Maybe our soccer players should try this sport instead," she joked.
Linda Yuanita, the wife of the captain, said she enjoyed the game although she would be busy taking care of her husband's bruises afterward.
"It's usual to see him come home black and blue. What can I say, it's part of the game," Linda said.
-- Niken Prathivi
