Hurricanes Knock-Out Semi-Final v Napier Boys' High School Report
The PNBHS 1st XV traveled to Hawkes Bay to face Napier in the Hurricanes semi-final eager to get back on the field following the enforced Covid-19 delay.
Napier started strongly and were rewarded with an early penalty and a try from a catch & drive to lead 8-0. PNBHS began to fight their way back into the game with the backs looking dangerous and the next 20 minutes became a very even affair. Unfortunately, it was Napier who struck next off a string carry and quick pick and go to extend the lead to 13-0. PNBHS rallied and began to apply pressure to Napier. After a series of phases in the Napier 22, Maraki Aumua put the perfect grubber kick through for Braxton Wilson-Clune to touch down and reduce the deficit to 13-5.
The halftime chat focused on playing the game in the right areas and then using the width on attack while continuing to bring the pressure on defence.
The second half was a very tight affair. The Napier team kicked well and pinned PNBHS into their 22. At times the 1st XV made breaks and looked dangerous but they were unable to wrestle the field position back and despite some resolute defence Napier scored a crucial 3rd try-out wide following a clever offload. As PNBHS began to try and chase the game Napier capitilised again to score their 4th try with the last play.
Final Score:
Napier Boys 1st XV 25 PNBHS 1st XV 5
Scorers:
Tries: Braxton Wilson-Clune
Congratulations to both Sam Coles and Lawrence Leung-Wai who received their 1st XV caps today.
Thank you to our 1st XV Rugby Sponsors
