OBU first five-eighth Dale Sabbagh hopeful of Jubilee Cup success

“We’ve had trouble fielding our strongest team this season which has created chances for others to step up. Now the coaches have a tough job selecting our best 22,” Dale Sabbagh acclaims when reflecting on Old Boys University’s (OBU) season.

Despite employing the services of 56 players and 23 debutants in 2017, the Billygoats head into this Saturday’s Jubilee Cup final against Hutt Old Boys Marist riding the crest of a wave.

In addition to holding the Swindale Shield and Andy Leslie Trophy, OBU destroyed Tawa 50-22 in their semi-final on Saturday to become just the second team since 2005 to amass a half century in a finals fixture.

OBU have won 17 out of 21 games and 12 of those by 15 or more points. They have beaten Hutt Old Boys Marist twice, 38-36 and 19-17.

“Those games mean nothing,” Sabbagh insists.

“It will come down to who wants it most on the day. Our game plan will involve playing in their half and trying to use the ball when chances arise.”

In the first match against HOBM, Sabbagh kicked the winning penalty goal close to full time while OBU was forced to foil 27 phases of desperate attack on their goal line to prevail in the second encounter. Hutt presents a significant challenge.

“Sheridan Rangihuna will be back and HOBM build their game around nine. Sheridan is a very good organiser of their big pack. I hope we get a good field and can move them around a bit. If not we will have to tighten up,” Sabbagh theorises.

There was nothing tight about the semi-final against Tawa. OBU stormed out to a 24-3 lead and was never in danger of losing.

Last Monday the Wellington Lions wider training group was named. OBU didn’t have a single selection. Sabbagh was blunt when questioned about that decision.

“It’s a joke, but we’re using it as added motivation. Tawa had four Lions in their pack on Saturday.”

Sabbagh was with the Wellington Axemen in his first season of Wellington Premier rugby last season. The Axemen managed to win 11 games, double their tally this year, but Sabbagh wasn’t entirely satisfied at Hataitai Park.

“Things were a bit up and down last year. I wanted to play for a club with a stronger culture and a better chance of winning.”

Shifting with cousin Matt Goosen, Sabbagh has flourished with the Billygoats. He has scored an OBU record 241 points this season passing Glyn Champion’s 1994 effort of 195.

Sabbagh’s kicking has made a telling difference for the Billygoats. In 2016, OBU scored 92 tries and slotted 51 conversions - narrowly missing the Jubilee Cup semis.  In 2017 OBU has scored 113 tries and kicked 76 conversions, a 12 percent improvement.

“I like the rugby we play here. The coaches are good, calm men who encourage us to play with width and involve everyone. Reegan Vernay takes a lot of pressure off me in the midfield. He can kick a long way and has the ability to create something from nothing. I have a good relationship with Tomasi Palu at halfback too,” Sabbagh marvels.

Sabbagh is originally from East London in South Africa. He spent two years in the Lions Super rugby academy, but was ranked behind present Springbok Elton Jantjies.

His 18-month stint in Romania was a success before he acquired a two year working visa in New Zealand. Presently Dale works in the artificial turf business and is currently applying the finishing touches to a new tennis court at Naenae College.

Sabbagh’s father passed away three years ago. He used to run a flooring business. Mum works in retail and a younger brother is an electrician.

Sabbagh is hopeful of extending his time in the capital, but if he can’t he may leave with a Jubilee Cup triumph - something that’s been elusive for many locals legends.

Jubilee Cup final:
Old Boys University v Hutt Old Boys Marist
Petone Recreation Ground, Saturday 5 August, kick-off 2.30pm