Due to the rescheduling of Super 8, the PNBHS annual exchange against Napier Boys' High was played on Thursday. The match also served as a Bartholomew Cup challenge. The last meeting between the two sides saw PNBHS claim the cup off Napier Boys' High School nearly a year ago.
From the outset, it was evident that PNBHS would have a tough challenge as Napier looked very threatening in the opening quarter. Napier took the lead at the end of the first quarter after they were awarded and converted a penalty corner.
PNBHS were undeterred in their game plan. Their defenders and midfielders began to outlet with confidence, continually breaking down an aggressive Napier press. This, coupled with some menacing pressing from Perry Smith upfront, provided
PNBHS with plenty of attacking opportunities. Eventually, Ben Havord converted a penalty corner to make the score 1-1.
Two quick goals to Will Roberts and Tom Bayley followed as PNBHS began to assert their dominance. A fourth goal was scored by Zach Carline shortly after.
As PNBHS looked to close out the match, Napier threw everything at them and managed to score a consolation goal with a couple of minutes remaining. PNBHS finished the game with a 4-2 win and retained the Bartholomew Cup. Hael Pritchard and Connor Mannagh had influential matches in midfield whilst Ben Havord had an outstanding game at centre back.
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