By TOM PRIMMER

Saturday afternoon saw Sunnybank claim an upset 24-27 victory over reigning premiers Easts in what was an enthralling contest at David Wilson Field.

Momentum ebbed and flowed for much of the afternoon, with the Bankers eventually holding out a late attacking charge by the Tigers to secure a boilover Round 1 victory.

The win sees the Dragons claim the seventh annual Rick Tyrrell Cup, as both clubs came together to campaign for mental health in the rugby community.

It was the flyhalves who took centre stage at Tigerland, with both Hayden Sargeant (Sunnybank) and Jack Frampton (Easts) putting in masterful performances with the ball in hand and off the foot.

The Bankers forwards also proved up to task against the fancied Tigers pack, refusing to go backwards at set-piece time or around the park.

Sunnybank head coach Sione Fukofuka praised his side’s performance against the competition heavyweights.

“I was impressed with our ability to compete and stay in the fight, as well as our intent to play,” he said.

“There were shifts of momentum throughout the game and we were able to refocus and reset. It was nice to win a close one against a very good side in Easts.

“Tevita Ahosivi played his best game I’ve seen him play, he carried very well, was a threat with the ball in hand and defended well. Laurence Tominiko and Daniel Anae pushed out 80 and 70mins respectively, scrimmaged very well, were great in their line out roles and got through a lot of work around the grounds.

“We will reset and refocus on our next game and come up with a plan for Bond. There are some sore bodies and a few injuries we need to assess. From a game perspective, we will look at our inside 40-metre composure, improving our line-out percentage and assessing our discipline.”

The Bankers will have a bye next round before they look to continue their winning ways against Bond in Round Three, with Easts travelling south to face the Gold Coasters this weekend.

Sunnybank 24 (Tries: Hayden Sargeant, Laurence Tominiko, Daniel Anae, Penalty Try, Cons: Sargeant) d Easts 17 (Tries Jack Frampton 2, Matt Smit, Cons: Pilz)