PNBHS 2nd XV vs Manawatu College 1st XV
Tuesday 22 May
PNBHS started the game superbly with the forwards carrying hard and the backs moving the ball into space. Following a short lineout play and a couple of strong forward carries, Isaiah Sua received the ball in space and crashed over. On the back of some intelligent kicking from Logan Love, PNBHS were soon back on the attack and after a series of pick and go’s, Soane Fakahau scored from close range.
Manawatu College responded with some good attack, using their wide players to challenge the PNBHS defence. A quick tap penalty saw them break the PNBHS line and score to reduce the deficit. PNBHS again took control of the game and a quick tap penalty of their own saw them create space for Soane Fakahau to score his second. From the kick off, a good carry from Faipau Sekona fractured the Manawatu defence and Soane Fakahau exploited a hole before feeding Josh Ellingham for another score. Half time score 26-5.
Injuries meant a reshuffle in the forwards at half time and this, coupled with some poor execution, gifted Manawatu College a way back into the game. PNBHS found themselves in their 22 and under pressure and after a number of phases Manawatu College capitalised and reduced the deficit.
A poor tackle from Isaiah Sua then saw him receive the yellow card and put the PNBHS defence under further pressure. However, the forwards began to assert their authority. A break from Carson Hepi saw him find Faipau Sekona in space and he scored in the corner. A 5m scrum saw PNBHS attack the line hard and after some good work again from the forwards, Isaiah Hauraki scored.
A good win for the 2nd XV and they look forward to Gisborne in the Super 8 on Saturday.
Final Score – 38-10
Scorers:
Tries: Isaiah Sua, Soane Fakahau (2), Josh Ellingham, Faipau Sekona, Isaiah Hauraki
Conversions: Logan Love (3), Reif Dawson
