1st XV v Kings College Match Report
The 1st XV came back off the midseason break to host Kings College from Auckland. Currently second in the Auckland 1A comp and boasting a number of Blues U18 players, the home side knew it was going to be an extremely tough encounter.
The game started positively with the forwards showing yet again that their strong running game in the close channels troubles any side and the good front foot ball was utilised well by the backs. The defence was equally as combative and we were first to score a try after stringing multiple phases together in the oppositions 22. Defensive pressure resulted in a second try shortly thereafter and after 20 minutes we were up 14-0 and it was game on. We released the pressure a little with a dropping in intensity and the very good Kings side made us pay with two tries before more “in your face” defence extended the lead again to 19-12 at the half.
The message at the half was around ensuring we minimised our mistakes while maintaining our intensity defensively.
The second half showed an increase in intent from Kings as they rolled on some handy subs and they soon levelled the score at 19 apiece. It was very much tit for tat for the next stanza as both sides had opportunities to take the lead. Territory was on our side but the dangerous counter attack game and their waves started to get the best of us and they were finishing strongly. We were reduced to 14 men and they scored the go ahead try. Once restored to the full complement we had a period of play where we could level the score but were guilty of poor execution of individual skills and were unable to convert. Kings scored a last minute try and extended the lead out to 31-19 on the final whistle.
In the final wash up we were happy with our intent and our physicality. However this was definitely an opportunity lost to beat one of the top Auckland schools. We had enough chances but just lacked the killer mindset to nail the skills required.
Points:
Tries: Soane Fakahau; Tavita Henare-Schuster x 2
Con: Curtis Heaphy x 2
