Perhaps playing the Australians a week earlier and with some players carrying slight niggles playing 4 high intensity games in 5 weeks was perhaps a step too far for Locko's chargers. In the end I think we just have to be honest, hold our hands up and say we were beaten by the current Tri Nation champions and on the day they rightfully deserved their victory.

However, the Brothers gave their all as they always do, performing like Gladiators whilst maintaining their focus in the 35c heat. The youth full New Zealand side under Team Manager 'Aussie Mal' Mal Badham, ex RN CPO (PT) were well trained and were a solid ball handling side. The Kiwi never die attitude was present from the very start with the side presenting the RN boy's with the world famous HAKA!

Brothers Captain and genetic freak (Unique training methods is all I'll say.....) Mark Robinson simply positioned the lads in a half circle , took a breath and went about his business as normal. Game on.......

Highlight of the match was the RNRL 'TRY' for the departing Matty Corrigan. The Big Cumbrian softy sadly leaves the service shortly after our return to the UK, and in what could be his last performance in the Brothers shirt it was great to see him get over the whitewash. All at RNRL wish Big Matty C all the best in his next venture - Lama breading and the opening of a big eats place called "Front Row" with his oppo Ritchie "The Master Chef" Metcalfe. I am sure Lama stew with Chips will be a red hot seller along with the story of "When I scored in Australia......!" Its bound to be in Cumbria's finest places to visit!

A further RNRL 'TRY' from Tom Marchant, saw his watching father do a one man Mexican wave in the stands! What a moment for a lad who definitely has a great future in the RNRL. 'CONV' from Darren Bamford gave the Brothers their points for the day.

Final score being Current Champions 22 - Inter Service Champions (UK) 10

The respect between the two sides and their respective Management Teams was clear for all to see at the joint after match BBQ at HMAS PENGUIN were the two sides are accommodated. The final victory of the day I am sure went to the RNRL lads who won hands down on the 'newbee's' dance off as the Kiwi's call it!

Lastly, once again many thanks to all the folks back home and to all our sponsors. Your support and best wishes have definitely kept the 2014 Inter Service Champions going!