The Philippine National Rugby League (PNRL) local season started on a high note, with two games in Round 1 taking place on Sunday, August 11 at Manila's Rizal Memorial Stadium  - a venue that is no stranger to momentous games, having hosted notable football matches and other sporting events.

This season of the PNRL will see four teams in competition, with three newly formed teams trying their hand at rugby league. The Braves and Gorillas come from a traditional rugby background, participating in PRFU 15's and 7's tournaments, whereas the Panthers are newcomers from Pampanga, collaborating with Clark Jets players to bolster their team.

Braves v Panthers

In the opening game, Braves RFC put forth an impressive display of skill, determination, and collaboration. They took to the field with energy and tackled their challenge with enthusiasm, offering spectators a compelling show.
Right from the start, there was clear synergy between the forwards and backs. A coordinated effort from the team led to an early try with individual brilliance from Johnsen Lalongisip, whose speed and smart play led to a second try in the opening half.

For the Panthers, it was a debut match to remember, as they claimed their very first victory in the PNRL Domestic Shield against the Cavite-based Braves. Under the leadership of captain Marcky Teresa and co-captain Gian Disonglo, the team demonstrated sheer resolve.

The match's opening half saw Francis Masin scoring twice, while Jonel Madrona contributed another, placing the Panthers narrowly ahead at halftime with 12-10.

As the second half progressed and despite facing setbacks like the injury to Francis Masin and Harris Johnson’s penalty time in the sin bin, the Panthers displayed formidable resilience. Braves’ strategic changes initially caused disruption but led to a shift in momentum, Dave Tuscano left his mark with strong runs that enabled him to score a vital try, warranting admiration from both his colleagues and the Philippine National Rugby League.

Cris John Engreso played a pivotal role for the Panthers, creating opportunities, including Daeniel Ilanan's fourth try. Joemari Rauras and Angelo Arsolon made important defensive plays, with Gian Disonglo's steal becoming a key highlight of the game.

Jonel Madrona clinched the game for the Panthers with two decisive tries in the last five minutes, concluding the game with a close 24-22 victory over the Braves. This earned Madrona the Man of the Match award, the game marking a history-making moment for both Pampanga Panthers and Braves RFC whose debut and subsequent matches were a testament to their hard work.

Special mention must be made to Braves RFC’s Ivan Acilo, whose strategic plays provided stability to the team, while Lenard Perejan’s agility skills were crucial in maintaining momentum. Zept Villanueva's energy and tactical awareness added depth to the Braves’ game plan, contributing to a well-rounded and solid team performance.

Manila Storm v Gorillas

In the second game, the well-established Manila Storm went head-to-head with the debutant Gorillas Rugby Club. Despite being newcomers to the revered sport, the Gorillas presented a formidable challenge to the Storm.

The Storm's initial try was a product of an impressive collective effort, with Julian Feleo completing the play beautifully. Larcel Caparros, known for his prowess in Philippine Touch, successfully executed the conversion.
For many in the Gorillas lineup, it was their inaugural rugby league match. Under the leadership of the young captain Otto Devantier and the experienced Miguel Velis, the team had a rigorous start facing the physically dominant Manila Storm.

Early scores put the Gorillas at a disadvantage, but Niel Pickford’s seasoned skills ensured a try before the break, which was converted by Devantier. At halftime, Storm led 16-6. As the second half unfolded, the Gorillas adapted and built-up strength, thanks to Marc Smoliner and Ethan Ignacio's dynamic runs. Maximus Ignacio managed to pierce through the defence for a critical try following a penalty.

In the final 15 minutes, the Storm escalated their efforts, resulting in three tries from Jan Norbin Puig and Lito Ramirez, including one originating from a strategic play by the Ramirez brothers, capped off with a 'magic pass' to Lito Ramirez. Caparros’ two conversions finalized the score at 28-12, securing the win for the Storm.

Manila Storm's scorers included John Denmar Usman with two tries, Jan Norbin Puig and Lito Ramirez each adding further tries, accompanied by two successful conversions from Larcel Caparros, in addition to Julian Feleo's noteworthy performance earning him Stom player of the match honours.

Despite the defeat, the opening round was stellar for the Gorillas, showing early signs that they would develop into a formidable contender as the season advances. In a gesture of true sportsmanship, the Storm named Gorillas’ Maximus Ignacio as the Gorillas man of the match.