The annual Back to Port Hacking was supposed to be an even bigger celebration had Southern Districts first grade rugby union toppled visitors Warringah on Saturday, June 27, at Forshaw Rugby Park, Sylvania Waters.
But the Warringah Rats gnawed away, defeating Southern Districts 26-12.
The club hosted their annual Back to Port Hacking Day and hoped for victory in the Shute Shield competition round 14.
Southern Districts spawned in 1989 as a result of a merger of the Port Hacking and St George clubs.
Southern Districts general manager Craig Hawkings said the day celebrated the history of Port Hacking and its significance along with St George in the formation of their club.
Warringah Rats led 12-5 at half-time. Despite a second-half try to Afa Pakalani that bridged the gap after a Ben Volavola conversion to 14 points, the visitors were too strong.
"That's footy; we got beaten on the day," Southern Districts general manager Craig Hawkings said.
The Rebels could be boosted for Saturday's's clash against Sydney Uni at Sydney Uni with the return of lock and regular skipper Jed Hollaway (hamstring) and halfback Dewett Roos (hamstring).
Rebels are still third on 46 points.
Warringah 26 (Rory Connor, Hamish Angus, Josh Holmes, David Feltscheer tries; Hamish Angus three goals) d Southern Districts 12 (Afa Pakalani, Paul Asquith tries; Ben Volavola one goal).
Did you go along to the celebrations?
