PNBHS 2nd XV vs Wellington College 2nd XV
PNBHS entertained Wellington College 2nd XV in their traditional fixture on Saturday at Coronation Park. Poor weather in the lead up to the game and steady rain during the match meant it was likely to be a tight forward battle.
From the kick off, PNBHS forced an error and some good carries by the forwards led to Israel Young beating a defender to score under the posts for an early 7-0 lead. An error from the kick off allowed Wellington to build some pressure and they were rewarded with a penalty which reduced the deficit to 7-3. This seemed to hand Wellington the initiative and they camped in the PNBHS 22 for the next 15 minutes, helped by some inaccuracies from PNBHS. However, strong defence held Wellington at bay with their only reward another penalty and the score was 7-6.
PNBHS rallied and their forwards began to take control of the game. Strong carries from Israel Young and Soane Fakahau punched holes in the Wellington defence, creating space for Bryn Gordon. He punched through the hole and managed to get an offload away for Harlow Apiata to score. More pressure was applied and another charge from Bryn Gordon saw him suck in defenders before popping the ball to Korie Winters for an easy score and a 19-6 half time lead.
The second half started in a similar fashion with the Boys’ High forwards to the fore. A big charge from Bryn Gordon and Tom Finlay gave PNBHS field position and when they were awarded a penalty they were rewarded with a well-executed ‘catch & drive’ and a second try to Harlow Apiata. PNBHS kept applying pressure and a crunching tackle from Isaiah Sua caused the ball to come loose and Mitch Leach pounced on it for the 5th try.
Wellington scored a late consolation after some concerted pressure but a very positive performance by the 2nd XV which is encouraging as we approach semis and finals.
Final score 31-11
Scorers:
Tries:
Israel Young
Harlow Apiata x 2
Korie Winters
Mitch Leach
Conversions:
Jack Harris x 3
