The ACT & Southern NSW Vikings have capped off a stunning debut season in the Australian Rugby Shield, winning the tournament decider against the Melbourne Axemen 36-10 on Saturday at Viking Park in Canberra.
Rain late in the week failed to dampen the intensity of the match, throughout which the Vikings' dynamic backline displayed their trademark speed while Melbourne's hulking forwards were impressive up front.
Both teams posted tries in the opening ten minutes, the Vikings the first to score at the three-minute mark through inside centre Josh Staniforth, who went on to convert his own try.
Shortly after, Melbourne Number 8 Moses Haukinima crossed for a try, the conversion by Michael Thompson levelling the score at 7-all.
In their first Australian Rugby Shield Final appearance the Axemen continued to press the Vikings' line, but midway through the half missed a few crucial tackles, which allowed the home team to all but secure the Champions title through three tries in 11 minutes.
Scrumhalf Beau Mokotupu crossed first, followed by outside centre Tim Cornforth then second rower Adrien Clements, with Josh Staniforth converting all three tries to take the score to 28-7 at the break.
Five minutes into the second half Axeman Michael Thompson slotted a penalty goal for his side, which were the last points the visitors would score.
The Vikings went on to stretch their lead through a further try, to Number 8 Peter Kimlin and a penalty goal to reserve Ben Johnston.
For Melbourne, number 8 Moses Haukinima was impressive, adding extra grunt in the forwards, while flyhalf Andy Castleman distributed the ball well.
For the Vikings, Number 8 Peter Kimlim, outside centre Tim Cornforth and lock and captain Daniel Guinness were outstanding.
2006 Australian Rugby Shield Final
ACT & Southern NSW Vikings 36 (Josh Staniforth, Beau Mokotupu, Tim Cornforth, Adrien Clements, Peter Kimlin tries; Josh Staniforth 4 cons, Ben Johnston pen) defeated Melbourne Axemen 10 (Moses Haukinima try; Michael Thompson con, pen).
Half time: Vikings 28-7.