Royal Navy beat Australian Navy to win Commonwealth Cup

The Royal Navy have retained the Commonwealth Cup after a convincing win against the Royal Australian Navy in Plymouth. 

Against a strong Australian team, the Navy came into this match with the upper hand having already beaten the Royal New Zealand Navy in their opening match of the rugby union tournament.

In their second encounter, the Royal Navy sealed the deal with a 23-13 win against their Aussie counterparts. 

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Australia made a strong impression in the opening stages and forced the Senior Service to work hard in defence.

After the Aussies were reduced to 14 men after an illegal no-arms tackle, the Royal Navy capitalised on their advantage and took a 13-6 lead into the half time break.

The visitors mounted a strong comeback campaign in the second half but it wasn't enough to break through the solid Royal Navy defence.

A 10-point victory means the Navy can celebrate a title win.

Cover image: Alligin Photography.