The 1st XV travelled to Auckland to play in their traditional fixture vs Kings College. After a break in their fixtures this game serves as an important lead into the remaining Super 8 fixtures, the squad was keen to put in a good performance.
From the kick-off Kings College attacked PNBHS but they were held at bay with some strong defence. Gradually the 1st XV worked their way into the game and were rewarded with an early try to Tom Illston-Park from a pick and go. Kings replied with some good hands creating space before PNBHS again built some pressure and were rewarded with a penalty. The ‘tit for tat’ nature of the half continued with Kings scoring two more well-worked tries and PNBHS scoring two penalties this saw Kings up 21-16. A penalty on halftime saw Kings extend the lead to 24-16.
The half time focused on improving our communication on defence and making sure we played rugby in the right areas of the park.
The second half was a very even battle with both teams trying to gain ascendency in field position. The 1st XV gradually built some pressure but unfortunately were not clinical enough to convert their opportunities into points. From a switch of attack Kings found space down the short side and extended their lead to 29-16. PNBHS attempted to rally but were again let down by inaccuracy at the breakdown or the final pass.
With the final play of the game Kings again showed their clinical edge to score another try and win the game 36-16.
A number of players got their first taste of 1st XV rugby and there were certainly a number of positives, the squad will need to work hard this week to prepare for their next Super 8 game, against Rotorua at home this coming Saturday.
Scorers:
Tries: Tom Illston-Park
Conversions: Curtis Heaphy
Penalties: Curtis Heaphy (3)
Thank you to our 1st XV Rugby Sponsors
Link to all photos from the game https://drive.google.com/.../1t7xhIVV7ZJemNw9HDy8X0l...
