Magro best player but Cambridge retain trophy

Malta international Adam Magro was man-of-the-match in the Varsity Match at Twickenham, on Tuesday, contested by the two oldest UK academic institutions.

Cambridge and Oxford battled out an 11-11 draw in the 122nd Varsity Match, the first tied result in 38 years, meaning Cambridge retained the trophy as defending champions following their narrow victory last season.

After weathering some early Oxford pressure it was Cambridge who opened the scoring in a match controlled by England World Cup referee Chris White. But Magro led Oxford's charge as the Dark Blues went in for the break 8-6 in front.

With 20 minutes to go, Oxford extended their lead to 11-6 from a penalty after a good break from Magro. However, they conceded a late try which tied the match on 11-11. The conversion was missed but Cambridge still lifted the MCC Trophy as the rules stipulate that the previous Varsity Match winners will retain the honour if the next contest finishes all-square.

Eight members of England's World Cup squad paraded the Webb Ellis Trophy during half-time. Fresh from Monday's tumultuous victory parade through central London, there was more heroic adulation for the England stars on the gold trophy's first match-day viewing at Twickenham in front of 70,000 spectators.

MRFU new manager

Malta Rugby Football Union (MRFU) president Kevin Buttigieg yesterday told The Times that the national team has a new manager.

Alan Churchill was officially appointed this week to fill the void left by Mike Beerman who decided to leave his job after three years. Beerman is still involved in club rugby with Kavallieri.

Churchill will work closely with fellow Wales countryman Graham Richards, the national coach.

"The national team has become serious business," Buttigieg said.

"Alan is another committed person who could put in all the hours needed to do a perfect job.

"Our take-off was modest. But now we are dealing with a large group of players, all with a good chance of national team selection.

"Magro played a superb match at Twickenham. He was the best player on the field and his performance was a boost for him and the MRFU."