2nd XV vs Gisborne
The 2nd XV travelled to Gisborne to play the GBHS 2nd XV in the first round of their Super 8 campaign. With heavy rain falling a forward tussle was on the cards. Straight from the kick-off the PNBHS forwards got into their work with some strong carries and good work at the breakdown. This lead to break and a pass from Xavier Reuben put Tom Finlay over for the 1st try. More pressure came as the big PNBHS forwards dominated the early exchanges and despite missing an easy penalty a second try arrived courtesy of Jack Nesdale from a quick ‘pick and go’.
True to form GBHS rallied. They attacked the PNBHS line with intensity and determination. Some excellent defence held them at bay and then managed to turn the ball over. It was swiftly shifted to Leauga Talamavaio who went 90m to score. This seemed to deflate GBHS and some excellent play from PNBHS saw Jack Sturmey make a break before the ball was shifted infield for Bryn Gordon to crash over. Half time score 26-0.
The team were wary of the GBHS fightback at the start of the 2nd half and came out firing. Some strong carries in the midfield and good work at the breakdown saw Jardyn Tamati score in the corner before an excellent kick chase forced an error and Jardyn was in for his second. A good run from Darius Mafileo created a chance for Israel Young to score before a kick through from Carson Hepi was pounced on by Mitch Leach.
GBHS were visibly tiring and with their tails up the PNBHS forwards kept coming. Some strong carries from Bryn Gordon and Tamati Ruawai again saw PNBHS camped in the GBHS 22. An error was pounced on by Mitch Leach who powered over for his 2nd before some quick recycling created space outwide and Jack Harris put Leauga away for his second.
This was a very good team performance in testing conditions and an excellent way to start the teams Super 8 campaign
Final Score – 60-0
Scorers:
Tom Finlay
Jack Nesdale
Leauga Talamavaio (X2)
Bryn Gordon
Jardyn Tamati (x2)
Israel Young
Mitch Leach (x2)
Jack Harris x 5 conversions
Photos of the game: Click this link 2nd XV vs Gisborne