Cloud cover hung low over the pitch, but the rugby spectacle at the local ground was bright with action. Both squads arrived with intent, but only one could convert momentum into a win.
First half opened with Gladiadores da Serra Maré scoring a quick try at minute 7, a burst that left Pérola de Granito scrambling for a response. A failed conversion, however, kept the score at 5‑0. By minute 12, Gladiadores’ striker was shown a yellow card, reducing their attacking force. The home side bounced back immediately, Mateus Rios crossing the line for a 12‑point lead at minute 14. Rios’ second try later that hour cemented a 12‑point cushion, but Lázaro Torres’ failed conversion left the score 17‑5 after the second Gladiadores try at minute 22.
The half‑time whistle left Gladiadores da Serra Maré trailing 17‑5, 3 tries to 1. Their 4th try, scored on minute 22, extended the deficit to 17‑10. The conversion, a fourth miss for Gladiadores, was a costly missed opportunity that would haunt them later.
Second half saw Pérola de Granito introduce Vincente at minute 41, followed by an injury to Gonçalo Carvalho at 42. Gladiadores’ 6th minute of play produced a try at 43, but a failed conversion meant the score stood at 17‑15. The home side then answered with Mateus Rios’ second try at 45, and Sérgio Zarum successfully converting his own try at 46 gave Pérola a brief 24‑15 edge.
Gladiadores responded at 54, another try that left the final score 20‑24. Their missed conversion at 55 meant the score settled at 20‑24, but the momentum shift was real. With just a minute left, a yellow card was shown to a Pérola player, but the opposition could not muster a comeback. The final whistle confirmed Gladiadores da Serra Maré’s 20‑17 victory.
Key stats: Gladiadores da Serra Maré scored 4 tries, none converted; Pérola de Granito scored 3 tries, converting only one. Mateus Rios dominated the scoreboard with 10 points from two tries, while Sérgio Zarum added a try and a conversion for 7 points. Both teams received a yellow card each. The decisive factor was Gladiadores’ inability to convert, which left them to rely on try count alone to secure the win.