Remembering Sir Ed with an icy kick around

New Zealand still rules the ice with Scott Base's rugby victory over McMurdo Station all the sweeter for being won in honour of Sir Edmund Hillary on the first anniversary of his death.

Before kick-off in the annual match yesterday, players bowed their heads for a minute's silence in remembrance of the adventurer, who pioneered New Zealand's presence in Antarctica.

Unbeaten New Zealand yesterday won 8-0 against Mt Terror RFC, the well-organised American team from McMurdo Station.

Scott Base rigger Keri Ria scored a try in the first quarter, sealing the game with a penalty before half-time.

New Zealand now holds the new Hillary-Dufek Ross Island Cup, donated by the New Zealand Rugby Union and named in honour of Hillary and American Antarctic pioneer Admiral George Dufek.

New Zealand flanker Dan Fenton said knowing that the match was dedicated to Hillary had added "a bit of pressure".

Team captain Gavin Read said it had been "a significant game for us and awesome to come away with the win".

However, Mt Terror captain Ron Bushbaum warned that "every year we get a little bit closer to winning".

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AllBlackfan   #3   05:26 pm Jan 28 2009

Since they started playing it at Antarctica; extreme conditions require a flexible attitude

suze   #2   05:26 pm Jan 28 2009

since it was played on ice.

Frazer   #1   05:26 pm Jan 28 2009

Since when has rugby been played in "Quarters" ?

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