Mexico beat Cayman 20-10 in ‘Big Match X’ Rugby

Story and photos by Christopher Tobutt.

The Truman Bodden stadium was filled to the brim with rugby fans on Friday 31 May. They had come to see the Little Cayman Islands defeat giant Mexico, like David and Goliath in the Bible, as they had back in 2022 with a decisive 34-14 win, but, despite cheering at the top of their lungs they were sadly disapointed. When the final whistle blew, Cayman, who had fought and struggled and given it their all, were deafeated 20-10 by Las Serpientes.

But Cayman can hold their heads high making Las Serpientes fight for every inch throughout the match. The match was the first of two between the sides this year; they will meet again on December 07 - so lets see what happen, then.

The scoring began when Esteban Viñas intercepted  a pass and ran 70 feet befor being tackled to the ground. A Quick turnaround saw   scrum-half Andrés Rodríguez kick the ball  over the defensive line for winger Enrique Carmona to chase, catch and score.

Mexico really took the lead from the second-half kick-off. Las Serpientes gained an attacking penalty. Nadaud went for a goal, seeing Mexico move ahead. Cayman got their own chance at a penalty but then Mexico as some replacements powered through Cayman’s defense.

The match was the first for both Mexico and the Cayman Islands in the 2024 Rugby Americas North (RAN) Men’s XV’s tournament. In previous games Guyana won against Trinidad & Tobago 24-23, Jamaica against  Bermuda 19-14 and Barbados punishing St. Vincent & the Grenadines 80-0.

there was a spectacular display of youth ruby during the half-time break, - with girl and boy players side-by side in the fun- but also ferrious - match.

 Cayman’s captain Conal Keane said how pleased he was with the way his team had done, and how proud he was of Cayman coming back strong in the second half, despite acknowledging Mexico’s rightful and decisive win.