PNBHS hosted New Plymouth 1st XV as part of the annual exchange. Coming off two defeats the 1st XV were eager to get the season back on track with a victory against their rivals. With weather conditions changeable and the field a challenge, an arm wrestle was on the cards.
From the kick off New Plymouth made their intentions clear attacking the breakdown and forcing an early penalty which they converted for the lead. Playing into the wind PNBHS used the ball and on the back of a break by Leo Gordon, they set up camp in the New Plymouth twenty-two. Some strong defence kept them at bay until Eli Oudenryn sneaked over from a pick and go to give PNBHS the lead. A good response from New Plymouth saw them apply pressure in the twenty-two but some resolute defence held them at bay until the half.
The chat at halftime focused on set-piece accuracy, playing in the right areas and building pressure.
The team executed this superbly, dominating field position. The PNBHS defence led by Leo Gordon, Joe Simpson-Smith and Eli Oudenryn stifled the New Plymouth attack and the kicking game of Curtis Heaphy and Sam Coles kept New Plymouth pegged back. A couple of penalties were missed before one was added to extend the lead and seal the game.
Final Score 10-3
Scorers:
Tries: Eli Oudenryn
Conversions: Curtis Heaphy
Penalty: Curtis Heaphy
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