THEY’RE blessed with a surname synonymous with rugby union success, but Wagga City’s fearsome foursome haven’t shared the paddock yet this season.
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As fate would have it, injuries, interruptions and suspensions have staggered the Lagaali quartet’s input this season, timing their collaboration perfectly for the Southern Inland Rugby Union finals.
Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s do-or-die clash with Waratahs, Jason, 25, said finally playing alongside his brothers Eddie, 19 and Gordon, 23 and his uncle Rambo, 33 would make it unforgettable.
“It’s something you don’t see too often, especially playing with your youngest ones and your uncle, it’s makes it a bit more special,” he said.
The three Lagaali boys grew up playing rugby union in Wagga, eventually expanding their football careers all around the country in Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne before settling at Wagga City this season.
With talent running through their blood, Jason insists Uncle Rambo’s decorated playing experience has been a huge influence on the three brothers.
Originally from Samoa, Rambo was given a rugbyscholarship to come to Australia at the age of 21, playing first grade in Sydney with Southern Districts.
“We always muck around a little bit together and we play against each other at training,” he said.
“(Rambo) got a scholarship to come over from Samoa and he’s been in Australia playing first grade in Sydney and Melbourne for the past few years.
“He’s very experienced in footy.”
Newcomers to finals football, the Boiled Lollies will take on the premier in the minor semi-final at Conolly Rugby Complex tomorrow.
“The players haven’t experienced this before, finals football is new to everyone and we really just want to seize the moment while we have it.
“Waratahs are a really good outfit, but I think it’s just going to depend on who turns up on the day.”
“We’ll be targets, that’s for sure.
“All we want is a strong game and a fair game.”
Although Jason has played rugby at the highest levels, he insists tomorrow’s sudden-death clash has got him on edge.
“I’m definitely nervous, but I think if we just play our usual game, secure the ball and not throw silly passes we can get there,” he said.
“We’ve got a game plan, we just need to stick to it.
“Hopefully it’s set up something for next year as well, it’s just good experience for the club and hopefully that can continue next season.”
