2nd XV v Napier 2nd XV - Polson Banner Match Report
The 2nd XV hosted their Napier counterparts knowing a win could see them finish 4th in Super 8.
From the kick-off Napier got in to their work, securing quick ruck ball and stretching the PNBHS defence from side to side. Napier were controlling the field position and possession and only some desperate defence kept them scoreless. Gradually PNBHS worked their way back into the game. Unfortunately, a forced pass was intercepted by Napier to give them the lead their start deserved. Napier were soon back on the attack. Their forwards were dominant at the breakdown and this was putting them on the front foot. Again, strong defence held them at bay and PNBHS were rewarded with a penalty to Jack Harris to reduce the deficit. Back came Napier again and after a series of phases they crashed over to extend the lead to 14-3. The PNBHS forwards rallied and charged into the Napier 22. After a series of strong carries, a quick tap saw space created out wide for Thomas Ellmers-Ropotini to crash over in the corner. A sideline conversion from Jack Harris made it 14-10 at the break.
PNBHS turned into the wind, knowing it would require a mammoth effort to pull this game out. The PNBHS forwards were fired up and started to get to grips with their opposition. Strong carries made in-roads but Napier were using the wind well and turning them around, making them run out of their own 22. For 20 minutes the game was a stalemate, both teams giving and asking no quarter and a tight finish threatened. A poor read of defence proved decisive as Napier took full advantage for their 3rd try and a 21-10 lead. Undeterred, PNBHS showed huge character and went back on attack. A snipe of a scrum from Matty Oldridge reduced the deficit to 21-15 but unfortunately PNBHS were unable to score again in the dying minutes.
Final score 15-21
Scorers:
Tries:
Thomas Ellmers-Ropotini
Matty Oldridge
Conversion:
Jack Harris
Penalty:
Jack Harris
