Monash claim University Challenge title

Thomas Whitty

August, 27, 2008

Monash University has won the annual Monash versus Melbourne challenge by the narrowest of margins.

In what has become a fierce rivalry over the years, competition was tough as expected. Although played in good spirit, it was evident that the two most prestigious universities in Victoria wanted to prove who was best.

The first match contested was mixed netball, in what proved to be a tantalising encounter with more bumps and bruises than a football match, Monash sealed victory in the dying stages of the match, setting the scene for the rest of the competition. Monash defeated Melbourne 44 – 43, rectifying a 6 goal deficit in the final 3 minutes of play. Although Melbourne appeared to be the more professional outfit, it was the determination and team work of Monash that pipped them at the post.

In touch football, Monash tried valiantly but fell short to Melbourne losing 12 – 5.

Waterpolo mirrored the mixed netball match. Both Monash and Melbourne men swam, kicked and threw themselves towards victory with Melbourne coming out victors by the smallest of margins, winning 11 – 10.

Though extremely close, the results in tennis went Monash’s way. The women’s singles matches were nail biting encounters, and could have gone either way. Yet the composure of the Monash women reigned supreme, both winning their events in tie breakers. The women’s doubles were a one sided affair, with Monash dominating, winning 9 – 4. The men’s tennis was a more contrasted battle. Both a Monash and Melbourne athlete won their matches, meaning the doubles matches would decide the winner. Monash won the men’s doubles 9 – 3 in powerful fashion, but it was Melbourne University who took the mixed doubles. In all, Monash won the tennis 5 sets to 2, a great result for the university.

In badminton and volleyball, mixed results were achieved. In badminton, a dominating performance was displayed by Monash athletes, winning both men’s 3 – 2, and women’s 4 – 1. However, in volleyball, the tides turned, seeing Melbourne claim victory in a powerful yet highly entertaining contest.

The final results saw Monash University finish on 8 matches won, and Melbourne, 6. In what has become a fierce, competitive rivalry over the years that prepares both Monash and Melbourne athletes for the Australian University Games, a fantastic sense of friendship and equality was truly evident.