The Rugby League season began in earnest in Norway as the biggest Rugby League tournament ever to take place in the country played out in Voldsløkka.
Nine teams entered the Oslo Open 9s tournament, coming from Norway and Scandinavian neighbours Sweden and all aiming to walk away with the trophy, including a under 19s team Nannestad Norsemen, with a mixture of youth and experience throughout the competing teams.
A day of fiercely competitive Rugby League 9s played out in front of a large crowd enjoying fine weather and saw some close contests, with Porsgrunn Pirates unlucky to lose out to Stavanger Storm when losing the lead with just 10 seconds remaining.
Both semi-finals proved to be thrilling encounters, with Swedish Roosters taking a battling 20-12 win over Oslo Capitals and Stavanger again scoring late to overcome defending champions Oslo Fusion, providing the tournament with a Norway vs Sweden final.
The final was a tough affair with both sides showing the effects of tough games earlier in the tournament. Stavanger were able to take control of the game and came out 14-4 winners over a competitive Swedish Rooster side, who pushed the Storm all the way.
In addition to showcasing the developing game in Norway, the Oslo Open also served as a try-out for the National Team. The coaches Dave Hunter and Lars Haigh was impressed by several players. "The level increases and the players are developing well across the country. It's really fun to watch the progression of the teams in Norway. It will be a very tough job for Lars and me to choose the squad this year" said head coach Dave Hunter.