Manuel Moreno led, Hyderabad Heroes clinched third place in the inaugural season of the GMR Rugby Premier League, as they saw off a spirited challenge from the Bengaluru Bravehearts. The Heroes, favourites to win the match looked locked in even though injuries plagued the team before the clash. Their headliners, Javed Hussain, Terio Tamani and Lautaro Bazan Velez were all ruled out in the semi finals. The Heroes defeated the Bravehearts 17-12 with contributions from Manuel Moreno, Joji Nasova, Kevin Wekesa and Bhupinder Singh.
“It has been such an exciting season, I am very happy for this opportunity to represent the Hyderabad Heroes and to play alongside my team. Working with DJ Forbes has been such a great learning experience. Even though we did not get the result we wanted for the way we have played throughout the season and I thank all the boys in the team for constantly giving it their all on the field. I look forward to the next season and the Hyderabad Heroes will comeback stronger” Said, Manuel Moreno, Captain, Hyderabad Heroes.
Backed by KLO Sports, the Hyderabad Heroes finished as strong as they started the league with a decisive win and remain the only team to beat all the other teams atleast once during the Rugby Premier League which is reflected in the end of season statistics. Hyderabad Heroes finishes with the most tries (50), most conversations (32), most tackles (207), most points (314), most assists (37) in the tournament. Notable individual performances include Terio Tamani (most conversions – 18), Max Roddick (most tackles – 31), Manuel Moreno (30 tackles). Javed Hussain remained the stand out Indian performer of the tournament and has proved to be fundamental in the success of the Hyderabad Heroes.
“I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Rugby Premier League and to be able to showcase all that I have been working extremely hard for. I thank my coach, my team mates for the trust that they have shown in my abilities which has been instrumental in the way I have been able to perform. It has been a season of great learning and we are all excited for the next season. Lastly, I thank my family and all the people who have stood behind me all this while and are able to see the results of their hard work as well.” Signed off, Javed Hussain, Hyderabad Heroes.