For anyone craving a high-stakes, emotionally charged drama that breathes new life into the classic underdog formula, put The Winning Try (트라이: 우리는 기적이 된다) at the top of your list. This 12-episode series – the first scripted K-drama built around rugby – transforms the bruising chaos of high school rugby into a stirring arena for redemption, resilience, and hard-won growth. It’s packed with outstanding performances and dynamic match sequences that maintain a strong focus on character development.

Even without any prior knowledge of rugby, I was instantly pulled in. From its gripping first episode to its cathartic finale, this drama has earned a spot as one of my all-time favorite K-dramas.

Check out the trailer for a glimpse into the drama.

The Plot Summary

The narrative follows Ju Ga-ram, a disgraced former rugby star who returns to his alma mater as a contract coach. His mission is to revive a bottom-ranked high school team and, in turn, his own sense of worth.  There, he runs into his ex-girlfriend, Bae I-ji, now a shooting coach at the same school. As the boys grind their way toward the National Championship, the drama mirrors Ga-ram’s climb out of a doping-tainted past, weaving in school politics, family pressure, and rekindled romance without sidelining the sport’s grit.

Why the Drama Stands Out

The drama excels in using rugby as both sport and metaphor. It turns rugby language into storytelling metaphors. Take the titular “try”, rugby’s term for scoring: to ground the ball in the in-goal area despite fierce resistance. It becomes a recurring symbol for pushing forward, no matter the opposition – on the field and in life. The climax features a breathtaking “maul” sequence, where the entire team locks together to drive forward as one unit. It’s not just a play – it’s a culmination of character arcs, a literal and symbolic embodiment of collective strength over individual glory.

At its core, the drama isn’t about trophies or scoreboards – it’s about what sports can teach us: perseverance, humility, and the courage to rise after every fall.  As Ga-ram says early on, rugby isn’t about the final score; it’s about pushing yourself through tackles and doubt.  The drama beautifully reframes the scoreboard – not just a measure of success, but also a proof of growth. Every point scored is earned through sweat, sacrifice and self-belief.  By the time the National Championship arrives, the payoff works because the groundwork – on bodies, bonds, and belief – has been laid. In today’s hyper competitive society obsessed with rankings and outcomes, this message feels especially relevant – and deeply needed.

Much of the drama’s emotional weight rests on its stellar cast:

• Yoon Kye-sang gives a layered, magnetic performance as Ju Ga-ram, deftly avoiding the “fallen hero” cliché. His portrayal is a masterclass in quiet pain and stubborn pride.
• Lim Se-mi brings grounded warmth and quiet intensity to Bae I-ji, a coach who leads with principle—even when it costs her.
• Kim Yo-han impresses as team captain Yoon Seong-jun, who grounds the team’s growth arc with credible leadership and visible strain.

The supporting cast—especially Seong-jun’s teammates—infuse the team with life, humor, and heart. Their chemistry and camaraderie make each victory feel earned and every setback sting.

Final Thoughts

By blending the emotional depth of K-drama with the raw, kinetic energy of rugby, The Winning Try delivers a heartfelt and propulsive sports story.  While operating within familiar sports drama parameters, the execution—particularly the purposeful match design and the stellar performances—makes this underdog story a winning try indeed! You don’t have to be a rugby fan in order to enjoy this drama.

Happy watching! 🙂

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