Captained by Neil Gray and vice-captain Karl Davis, Ophir battled hard from the outset. The breakthrough came when Davis powered over for the game’s only try, giving Ophir a narrow lead and something to defend.

Civil Service kept the scoreboard ticking with a penalty, and though Ophir’s defensive effort was immense, the hosts were awarded a last-minute kick at goal which they converted to seal a dramatic 6–5 win.

There were plenty of positives to take from the performance, with every player leaving everything on the pitch. Man of the Match went to Brandon Bradford, who put in a huge shift and led by example throughout.

The result may have gone against Ophir, but the fight, spirit, and unity on display show the 2nds are heading in the right direction.