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NZ Herald
16 hours ago
- Sport
- NZ Herald
Sacred Heart edges Liston in thrilling First XV rugby clash
On a day when King's College maintained their two-point championship lead in Auckland 1A First XV rugby with a 27-24 win over St Peter's and second-placed St Kentigern College romped to a 57-0 away victory over Botany Downs Secondary College, Sacred Heart's win enhanced their top four prospects. But the beaming LED lights on this presumably very, very expensive piece of hardware (six figures, some home fans estimated) first had to work overtime with a consistently changing scoreline as Sacred came from behind four times to finally get the better of plucky Liston and move into third on the table. Sacred Heart College's new scoreboard. Photo / Bruce Holloway You had to feel for Liston. They were always a threat on attack, staunchly physical, and on the cusp of at least ending their forever losing streak against Sacred Heart, with the teams locked at 29-29 approaching the final minute of an exciting roller-coaster contest. 'No penalty, no penalty,' a Liston team official pacing the sidelines frantically counselled his players as Sacred Heart inched deeper within their territory. That proved to be the 'commentator's curse' as the referee duly awarded an offside penalty, 15m in from touch and 30m from goal. Up stepped replacement fullback Keanu Simpson and a hush came over The Pit. Sacred Heart team mates congratulate Keanu Simpson on his match-winning penalty. Photo / Bruce Holloway But Simpson nervelessly converted in much the same manner as his older brother Rico had done in seasons past, and Sacred claimed the game. The relief was palpable among hundreds of Sacred Heart old boys who could later be found supping tannin-rich altar wine in vintage striped blazers and reflecting on the vicissitudes of life behind doors at possibly the world's most convivial First XV rugby venue. Liston's two consolation bonus points at least kept them in fifth on a congested table and still on-target for their best-ever season. As for the scoreboard – which would not have been out of place at Eden Park – apparently Sacred Heart also have a spare one out the back for cricket. And anyone wondering how these technological marvels are financed might also have noticed the wheel-clamping of errant visiting First XV fans' cars at the college. 'Scoreboard pressure' takes many forms. Sione Katoa: Liston flanker Sione Katoa was a danger all day. Photo / Bruce Holloway Liston had the honour of being the first to make use of the new scoreboard when nimble flanker Dan Lawrence continued his fine season by crossing the line early with a pick-and-go, converted by halfback Max Stocker. Sacred then put together some good phases and engineered a stunning line break to level. It was the game's big Liston-v-Liston moment, as Sacred first five-eighths Liston Vaka'uta sprinted 40m to score under the posts. But Liston the team, were quickly back in front. A Sacred move from the back of a scrum resulted in Jonathan Simote intercepting and scoring the first of his two tries. Sacred replied with a try to right wing Troy Hola after a keen forward burst up the middle and then very effective back play – and so the game continued, with neither team ever ahead by more than seven. There were further Sacred tries to beefy prop Ravai Faktaufon and sub Andre Gray, while Liston blindside Sione Katoa capped a rampaging game by scoring under a pile of bodies from a tap to tie things up at 29-29 once Stocker had converted. Sacred heart fullback Finn Norrie tries to keep out Liston winger Ceasar Chang. Photo / Bruce Holloway Sacred weren't quite at their best and were often struggling to contain Liston. But No 8 Cuiz Simpson was always influential, lock Will Quin was an unsung hero in the tight and Anthony Wirjapranata made some powerful bursts. For Liston, Simote, of Tongan origin, has moved from second five-eighths to centre this season and was a huge danger with his powerful running. Indeed, Sacred several times found the worst thing you could do was to kick the ball in his direction. Lawrence was an effective and mobile openside flanker, while blindside Katoa and skipper Mitchell Veatupu at No 8 were the other Liston standouts. Liston coach Rory Lord deserves praise for having put together such a competitive unit at one of the smaller schools. A 64th minute converted try to fullback Calvin Harris-Tavita proved the difference as unbeaten King's College bounced back from a 12-14 deficit at the break to beat St Peter's 27-24 at home. King's other tries came from right wing Ollie Anderson and first-half efforts from prop Sione Manuopangai and left wing Joseph Fatuvalu. St Peter's tries came from prop Bailey Tupu Tuia, halfback Matthew Harris and No 8 Liam Lavulavu. Meanwhile, Auckland Grammar School warmed up for their iconic home showdown with leaders King's College this Saturday with a 27-10 away win over Dilworth School. Second five-eighths Nico Stanley, lock Fergus Williams and Bastion Armstrong were among the scorers for Grammar. Presuming the team sheets and player registrations are all in order after last year's administrative kerfuffle in this fixture, this moves Grammar to fourth on the table. St Kentigern's nine-try cruise against Botany Downs Secondary College included two apiece to second five-eighths Semisi Langi, centre Siale Pahulu and No 8 Lucian Mikaele. Kelston Boys' High School scored 35 first-half points as they defeated De La Salle College 42-12, where the features were second five-eighths Tariec Mulitalo getting three tries and Max Talbot making all six of his team's conversions. Mt Albert Grammar School beat St Paul's College 21-14 after leading 11-7 at the break. Auckland 1A draw (home team first, all games 2.30pm, Saturday): Auckland Grammar v King's College; De La Salle v Sacred Heart; Botany Downs v Kelston; St Kentigern v Dilworth; Mt Albert Grammar v Liston; St Paul's v St Peter's. Auckland 1A points: King's College 25, St Kentigern 23, Sacred Heart 19, Auckland Grammar 17, Liston 17, Kelston 16, St Peter's 16, Mt Albert Grammar 9, Dilworth 7, St Paul's 6, De La Salle 1, Botany Downs 1. Westlake dominant Westlake Boys' High School continued their historic dominance of rivals Rosmini College in North Harbour's Kyocera-sponsored championship with a 34-20 victory which took their overall tally to 53 wins (along with 28 losses and three draws) in the North Harbour era (1985 onwards). It was a hard-fought battle, but not without its curiosities. Playing into the breeze and on a heavy pitch, Westlake repeatedly kicked the ball down the throat of Rosmini fullback Nate Tofilau, who caught everything and was happy to run it back hard and straight, rugby league style. Then in the second half when they did have the wind, Westlake stopped kicking and suddenly found the gaps in the Rosmini midfield. Westlake hooker Jeremia Samoa is driven over to score a try against Rosmini. Photo / Photosport The first half was a forward-dominated arm-wrestle, with a lot of one-off runs and effective tackling, contested mostly in the middle third of the pitch, with Westlake dominant in the set pieces. Westlake No 8 Travis Findlay played out of his skin and opened the scoring in the sixth minute. But Rosmini's backs kept them in the contest and replied with a try created by left winger Kason Moller's absolute pace and the ball played inside to Hunter Johns. Westlake struck back with a try to strong loosie Solomone Tu'itupou, but Rosmini enjoyed a 13-12 half time lead through two Braden Morley penalties. Midway through the second spell Westlake had hooker Jeremiah Samoa yellow-carded for tackling through the 90, but were able to replace him for the set pieces with an equally solid rake in Demetrius Sanft. Tries to front-rowers Samoa, Kaiva Tulimanu and Sarel Jano Peens gave Westlake a margin of comfort. Rosmini gained a consolation try, a close bustling job, to prop Samiu Seau in their only foray into the Westlake 22 in the first 30 minutes of the second spell. Westlake hooker Jeremia Samoa is driven over to score a try against Rosmini. Photo / Photosport Meanwhile Whangarei Boys' High School came from behind to beat Rangitoto College 15-13 with tries to right wing Kawana Te Iringa and blindside Jordan Young. Takapuna Grammar picked up their first win, 31-24 away to Orewa College, Massey High School beat Mahurangi College 12-5 and, last Tuesday, Rangitoto College beat Orewa 57-3. North Harbour draw, Thursday, 3.30pm, Windsor Park: Rangitoto v Westlake. Saturday (home team first, all 12 noon): Mahurangi v Orewa; Takapuna v Rosmini; Massey v Whangarei. Points: Westlake 32, Rosmini 29, Whangarei 27, Rangitoto 20, Massey 15, Mahurangi 11, Takapuna Grammar 6, Orewa 1. Super 8: A treasured Palmerston North win Before Saturday, Palmerston North Boys' High School's last victory over Hamilton Boys' High School was in 2011, the year of the golden rabbit, which, according to zodiac tradition, offers an opportunity to catch your breath and calm your nerves. With three minutes remaining on Saturday, and despite withstanding a barrage, Hamilton appeared more composed in a tight Super 8 tussle with Palmerston North – though ultimately lost 19-21 in a dramatic finish. Hamilton sharpshooter Jackson Botherway capitalised on a clumsy tackle by kicking a 40m penalty, putting his team ahead 19-18. Palmerston North Boys High School First XV celebrated an important win. Photo / Supplied Gathering restarts had been a treacherous task for Hamilton, but lock Kent Mills, a colossus in the lineouts, overcame earlier struggles by soaring high to secure the ball with two hands. Typically, Hamilton are surgical at closing out a game, but halfback George Roose made a puzzling decision to box kick poorly to Hunter Kennedy. The Piopio Express zoomed back into Hamilton's half, leaving the door ajar. When Palmerston's first five-eighths, Jamie Viljoen, failed to execute an ambitious chip and chase, coach Dan Turnock was visibly frustrated, with his head in his hands. What he didn't realise was that a penalty applied, allowing his captain a shot to win the game. In swirling conditions, the kick was positioned 10m in from touch and a daunting 45m out. 'I felt like he was going to kick it,' Turnock said. 'We strive to create an environment where the kids have the confidence to make calls and back themselves. 'Jamie is a talented player. He can do it all. His decision-making regarding when to pass, when to kick, and when to run was outstanding. His kick was a result of everything else he did well in the game.' With two earlier penalties, Viljoen had given Palmerston North a 6-3 lead at half-time. It could have been more if his two line breaks had resulted in tries. In the 39th minute, Roose let loose Cullen Parai with a pass that Patrick Mahomes would have been proud of. The sideline conversion by Botherway in front of the rustic grandstand quietened the crowd. Leading 10-6, Hamilton mishandled the kickoff. Palmerston North advanced into the 22 and the determined openside Carlo Issac powered over from a lineout surge. Botherway's second penalty brought the score to 13-11, but the threat of Viljoen loomed large. In the 49th minute, the son of Springbok Joggie Viljoen broke through again, and with Kennedy in support, it was 'Goodnight Irene'. Palmerston's committed attack was stifled by Hamilton's rummaging flankers. Down 18-16, Hamilton nearly scored a spectacular try from their own end, until Kennedy became the Artful Dodger and almost went the distance himself. When Palmerston North Boys' beat Hamilton Boys' 24-5 in 2011, they featured two future All Blacks, Ngani Laumape and Jackson Hemopo, on their roster. Hamilton's current coach, Cameron Moorby, scored their only try that day. 'When you haven't beaten a team in 14 years, the focus tends to shift towards them instead of us,' Turnock said. 'We conducted our usual preview but aimed to focus on ourselves. If we executed our game plan, we expected to win. The boys did just that and feel pretty good.' Meanwhile bragging rights in Hawke's Bay belong to Hastings Boys' High School who rocketed from 17-0 behind after 15 minutes to overwhelm Napier Boys' High School 35-17. Napier capitalised on a lacklustre start from Hastings by scoring two tries. Halfback Harry Bain hared over from a penalty tap. No 8 Carter Pirie collected a spillage from close range. Hastings employed their lineout to rally. In the first half, two muscular drives were finished by Vincent Kite and Joseph Lilo-Sosefo. In the 44th minute Napier, bracing to defuse another drive, were deceived by a swift switch and Lilo-Sosefo celebrated a second. The prince of centres, Bruce Robertson, was a Hastings old boy. Props Isireli Qaranivalu and Nehemiah Lauvao did their best impersonation of the legendary All Black with some deft handling and stampeding runs. Both were involved in the sustained build-up to a try by winger Reef Robinson. Hastings' victory is their largest against Napier since a 38-3 triumph in 2017. Tauranga Boys High School College suppressed the deafening Gully roar thumping New Plymouth Boys High School 40-19. Notably, brothers Jay and Tommy 'Ethereal' McQuoid scored two of the visitors' six tries. Significantly the visitors were held scoreless for the last half an hour. Rotorua Boys' High School enjoyed a stylish 43-12 home victory over Gisborne Boys' High School. The hosts' seven tries were scored by Hunter Weaver, Hieke McGarvey, Taowaru Waititi, Isileli Tuutafaiva, Reijan Williams, Tommy McBeth and Tukotahi Richards-Te Whau. On Tuesday, Hamilton had begun their Super 8 campaign by retaining the Moascar Cup with a lopsided 49-15 trouncing of New Plymouth. While the visitors were valiant, they couldn't extinguish the combined fire of midfielders Maxwell Kara and Ollie Guerin, who were so active that if the game had been held in New Plymouth, they might have completed multiple laps of the Coastal Walkway. Both justly scored tries. Left winger Cullen Para dazzled with his agility, showcasing more dance moves than Esmeralda, while fullback Nathan Stephens was also lively. Up front, Liam Van Der Heyden and Caleb Grice bustled productively. Super 8 points: Palmerston North 14, Tauranga 10, Hastings 9, Hamilton 6, Rotorua 5, Gisborne 4, Napier 1, New Plymouth 0. St Andrews collect a big scalp For the first time since 2018, defending Miles Toyota Premiership champions Nelson College have lost three consecutive matches, the latest coming as they surrendered a 22-0 lead to succumb to St Andrew's College 24-22. It's the first time since 2019 that Nelson has lost this fixture. With time almost expired, Fynn Harris kicked a 35m penalty to complete an improbable comeback for the Papanui Road Presbyterians, much to the delight of coach John Haggart. 'He kicked it straight and true – a big moment for Fynn, who has shouldered a lot of responsibility as the only goal kicker in the backline,' Haggart said. 'Fynn has experienced some ups and downs, but he studies the game diligently, works hard, and will gain a lot of confidence from stepping up in such a pressure moment.' With a stiff southerly at their backs, Nelson blasted to a 22-0 lead in the opening quarter. Prop Tawhiao Whitham-TeKotua was damaging with two tries and Alfred Leweni crossed on the wing. Haggart complained that St Andrew's were 'too passive', but a try before half-time by loosehead prop Isaac Matulewicz, along with another disallowed try, provided reasons for optimism at the break. 'We talked about self-belief, using the southerly wind, and being more aggressive in defence. 'There were some outstanding performances in the second half. Our captain, Jonty Lang, nailed his lineouts and worked tirelessly. Caleb Collins-Paleri, who was an outside back last year, played No 8, and he had a huge game.' St Andrew's second-half tries came from centre Aza Roebeck and Collins. Harris converted every attempt. At the halfway stage of the premiership, five points separate the six schools ranked from fourth to ninth, with St Andrew's included in that cluster, holding two wins out of five matches. 'Even though we lost our first three games of the Premiership, we led Christchurch Boys' at half-time and felt we let the St Bede's match slip away,' Haggart said. 'We developed some depth and a good culture during a pre-season tour of Australia, and we challenged St Kent's at Quad. 'Christchurch and Marlborough Boys' are definitely beatable. Both teams have good game drivers and strong, intelligent players. However, if you look at the competition as a whole, it's pretty even, which is exciting.' Haggart is accustomed to winning. In 118 appearances for Otago, he won 74 times, including the NPC Premiership in 1991. He coached the Lincoln Premiers to three Canterbury Metro senior titles and served as assistant coach for Canterbury when they won the NPC in 2015. Additionally, he was involved with the Black Ferns during a period when they ranked World No 1 for 221 consecutive weeks, and has coached in Russia, Brazil and Japan. Meanwhile, Christchurch Boys' retained the Gerry Davidson Trophy with a resounding 41-0 whitewash of St Bede's College. Three of Christchurch's seven tries were scored by Cam Jones, who also slotted three conversions. It's the first time since 2005 that Christchurch have held St Bede's scoreless and their largest victory since a 46-0 romp in 1999. In the 117 games between the two schools, Christchurch has 73 wins, St Bede's has 39, and there have been five draws. Marlborough Boys' College remain unbeaten, outmuscling Christ's College 38-5, with No 8 Rico Nicklin scoring three of the hosts' six tries. St Thomas of Canterbury College thrashed Rangiora High School 60-20, with second five-eighths Isaiah Savea scoring two of their 10 tries. Shirley Boys' High beat Selwyn Combined 29-21. Miles Toyota Premiership points after five rounds: Christchurch 25, Marlborough 24, St Thomas 21, Nelson 14, St Bede's 11, Shirley 11, St Andrew's 10, Christ's 10, Selwyn 9, Rangiora 2. Selwyn Combined: A team built on a spirit of commitment Jake Cleland's parents, Reece and Mel, drive 400km each week just to get him to rugby practice with the Selwyn Combined rugby team, with no guarantee that the dedicated year 11 openside flanker will even play a game. But this sort of commitment reflects the spirit of sacrifice, determination, and gratitude within the Selwyn Combined team, a composite outfit competing in the Miles Toyota Premiership. Selwyn Combined consist of players from five schools: Lincoln High School, Darfield High School, Akaroa Area School, Ellesmere College and Rolleston College. This team brings together players who have fewer opportunities, especially those from rural areas. In 2024, Selwyn won their last game of the season against Timaru Boys' High School 20-12. In 2025, they have already defeated established powerhouses St Bede's College (18-12) and Christ's College (35-33) in consecutive weekends. Late tries by fullback Taika Reihana and second five-eighths Mason Cole inspired the upset against St Bede's in Rolleston. Conquering Christ's at their home ground was even more exhilarating, with a last-minute try from Ryder Allin securing Selwyn's first victory against the affluent Presbyterians. 'It's fair to say the boys were over the moon after the win against Christ's,' said coach Sid Tauamiti. 'The way they expressed themselves afterwards was special. 'Several boys are boarding at Christ's who could have played for us. Sonny-Bill McAndrew is one of Christchurch Boys' best players, and he's from Darfield High School. His dad, Peter, played for Mid Canterbury. 'There are many talented players and a strong sense of community in the country. We provide opportunities for players like Jake Cleland, from Lake Coleridge, to stay involved in rugby.' Tauamiti has been coaching in Canterbury for two decades, working with all levels from junior to seniors. His significant appointments include coaching Sydenham and University premiers. In 2022, he assisted the Canterbury Farah Palmer Cup team that won the Premiership undefeated. His second season with Selwyn began in January, starting with a trial period that lasted until April. They had 45 players initially, which was narrowed down to 30, mostly sourced from the two largest schools in the combine: Lincoln and Rolleston. Selwyn train under the lights at the Prebbleton Rugby Club while others are having dinner. They don't have a gym, but make do with what they have. Tauamiti has 'one specialist halfback and first five-eighths' but has developed some 'creative solutions' in case either or both of those players become unavailable. In 2024, centre and captain Brooklyn Dalgety was selected for the Crusaders U18s as a Year 12. Tighthead prop Lennox Kopelani is a Year 11 powerhouse. His uncle, Tone Kopelani, is a police officer who won two Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders. Young Jake Cleland has come off the bench in the last two games. 'The biggest difference between us and traditional schools is the relatively limited time we spend together. We don't have the opportunity to build connections like you can during the school day, so we must make the most of our time together. In theory, that should make you a better coach, though I'm not sure I've mastered it yet. 'Schoolboy rugby involves constant change and relies heavily on parental support. We have some continuity this year, which means we're better equipped to deal with the challenges of creating a cohesive team from a wide area.' Lincoln, or Selwyn Combined, have existed in some form for 20 years. 'We've never had a season where we've won more than half our games. Our goal is to change that. 'To be fair, we felt some self-imposed pressure during our loss against St Andrew's. They played very well; had they lost, their season may have been over.' Tauamiti is ably assisted by Reece Allan, a stalwart of Canterbury and New Zealand touch, who successfully guided Southbridge to two Ellesmere Senior Coleman Shield titles. In the 2020 final, Ellesmere College Rugby World Cup winner Daniel Carter featured in a thrilling 40-32 win over Waihora. Joining Tauamiti is Tii Paulo, who played 34 games at hooker for the Crusaders, winning Super Rugby titles in 2005 and 2008. Fellow Crusader Manasa Mataele was involved last year but has since transferred to the Chiefs. In recent years, Lincoln have produced Tasman and Crusaders lock Antonio Shalfoon and New Zealand U20 hooker Shaun Kempton. In 2020, Crusaders winger Macca Springer won the Philip McDonald Memorial Medal as the best player in the Miles Toyota Premiership while playing for Tasman's Selwyn equivalent, Waimea Combined. In 2017 Waimea Combined even defeated Nelson College 38-22, with future Hurricanes lock and Māori All Black Caleb Delany being the standout player in that match. St Peter's lead the Central North Island St Peter's School Cambridge continue to lead the Central North Island First XV Championship (having played one more game than Lindisfarne College) and they made it five from five with a 50-27 home win over Francis Douglas Memorial College. It was a reshuffled St Peter's lineup, with first five-eighths Alapati Tusa Soagia the most notable absence and Cruz Marra sliding from wing into midfield. Coach Carl Perry said 'a feeling-out process' with rearranged team personnel made for a slow start, and the game was still in the balance at 19-13 at half-time. St Peter's outside backs were sharp but it was halfback Luca Morrison who impressed the most, with two tries and an eye for exploiting mismatches. Other tries went to Remy Karuna, Jackson Edwards, Flynn Morey (2), Meek and Marra, while Morey showed his skills with five conversions. 'It was a pleasing result though obviously conceding 27 points is never ideal,' Perry said. 'But it has been a massive five weeks for us and we are now into the bye round which gives the First XV a chance to support the school's other teams.' Feilding High School's 26-12 win over St John's Hamilton on Hamilton Marist's new artificial turf was ultimately only settled with a few minutes to play when sub Elisala Malili-Malo-Lauano ran strongly to score after taking a nice ball from Austin Tunnicliffe. Earlier Karnyae Ropiha-WaiWai, Rupeni Raviyawa and James Tuitubahad scored for Feilding, with Nixon Foreman making three conversions. For St John's Taine Manihera and Jack Brosnan scored tries with Ollie Penfold converting one. St Paul's Collegiate enjoyed a fine away win, 57-5 against St John's Hastings, despite being struck by injuries and illness. Second five-eighths Kaden Robinson earned his 20th cap in the match, while lock Kele Cuthers and right wing Finn Fisher made their Central North Island debuts. Whanganui Collegiate host Lindisfarne on Wednesday. Central North Island points: St Peter's 24, Lindisfarne 19, Felding 17, Whanganui 11, St Paul's 10, Wesley 8, Francis Douglas 6, St John's Hamilton 6, St John's Hastings 0. Wellington v St Pat's Silverstream match to be broadcast live On Wednesday, Wellington College will host St Patrick's College, Silverstream, in a highly anticipated Tranzit Coachlines Premiership matchup that will be broadcast on Sky Sport, with kickoff set for 12 noon. Last year's finalists are currently the top teams in the premiership, both boasting perfect records and an appetite for prolific scoring. In their most recent matches Wellington College secured the Heron Scarf with a record 74-3 thumping of Rongotai College, while defending champions Silverstream outgunned St Bernard's College 62-3. Despite deteriorating weather conditions, Wellington led 55-3 at half-time against hapless Rongotai. First five-eighths Archie Sims had the ball on a string and executed three 50-22 kicks, two of which set up tries for hooker Seb Hopkins, who traversed 3m for his hat-trick. Wellington age-group volleyball representative Shea Bosher needed to work harder for his three tries; he was agile, swift and lethal on the outside breaks. Silverstream have amassed 203 points over three matches, displaying a powerful combination of brawn and expanse in a 62-3 slaying of St Bernard's. Silverstream's tries were scored by Aston Steere, Teddy Cooling, William Davis, Abraham Smith (3), Mea'ole Mai, Jahvaan Hunt, Lochie Jackson (2), and Corus Taylor-Lefao. Fletcher Cooper nailed five conversions. St Pat's Town captured the inaugural Willie Leota Memorial Tanoa. Photo / Supplied St Patrick's College, Town captured the inaugural Willie Leota Memorial Tanoa, honouring the late coach of both schools, dismantling Scots College 50-15. Although Scots were resilient in the first half and managed tries from Brandon Lo, James Favel, and Jacob Epeli, they trailed 21-15 at the interval. In the second half, Town's power prevailed with scrums becoming uncontested. Hefty front-rowers Donncha McNamara-Taele and Faimalie Tagoai each scored two tries. Locks Remy Fitisemanu (who also scored a try) and Tom Bracewell contributed significantly at Evans Bay Park. Hutt International Boys School came close to remaining unbeaten but were edged out 12-7 by Rathkeale College. A try scored by Riche Kloeg in the 71st minute broke HIBS' hearts at NZCIS. * The largest defeat Rongotai has likely suffered was in 2013 when they lost 88-3 to Scots College. In that match, Scots scored 14 tries and converted nine, with future Japanese international Malo Tuitama scoring five tries and former Hurricanes prop Alex Fidow adding two tries and two conversions. Wellington Tranzit Coachlines Cup points: Silverstream 15, Wellington 14, St Pat's Town 11, HIBS 10, Rathkeale 9, Tawa 7, Scots 5, Rongotai 1, St Bernards 0, Wairarapa 0. Southern Schools promotion candidates set St Kevin's College from Oamaru and Mount Aspiring College will face off in Ranfurly (home of Andrew Hore) on Saturday for a chance to earn promotion to Division One of the Freeman Roofing Southern Schools Rugby Championship. Mount Aspiring College finished undefeated in Division 2 Maroon, while St Kevin's topped the Blue group after securing a slender 15-12 victory over Waitaki Boys' High School on May 31 and a resilient 26-14 win against Central Southland College last Saturday. St Kevin's are one of the smallest schools in the Southern Schools Championship and select a team from just over 25 senior boys. But promotion to the top six has nevertheless been a goal of this group of players, who are also heading to Fiji next month for a three-match tour. Meanwhile Dunstan High Schol were relegated from the top flight after a disappointing 32-17 loss to a rejuvenated John McGlashan College. Lock James Kinney scored two of the visitors' four tries, and Oscar Crowe added 10 points from the bench. Nate McLellan continued his stellar season by contributing a dozen points for Dunstan. King's High School, missing five of their top players, managed to overcome Southland Boys' High School Second XV with a convincing 47-19 victory. Disagree with anything here? We welcome alternative viewpoints. Email us at nzschoolboyrugby@
NZ Herald
19-05-2025
- Sport
- NZ Herald
Hamilton Boys' High School dominates in Moascar Cup rugby defence
By Bruce Holloway and Adam Julian First XV rugby wrap: Hamilton Boys' High's stunning Moascar Cup defence; King's College on top in Auckland; Francis Douglas' Stephen Donald moment; Dunstan's epic upset; Palmerston North retain the Wallace Cup; Nelson and Marlborough flying high; all the action nationwide... There are a few
NZ Herald
12-05-2025
- Sport
- NZ Herald
First XV wrap: King's College play the percentages and win; Whanganui Collegiate stun St John's College; Hastings' hot streak ends in Wellington; Big guns unload early in Southern Schools Championship...
In fact, it was a big day all round for King's, with a rugby luncheon beforehand and kick-off belatedly brought forward 30 minutes to allow the players time to get their hair done before the big college ball on Saturday night. King's College fans celebrate victory over Sacred Heart. Photo / Bruce Holloway The ball theme was 'An Evening in Monte Carlo', and the King's College First XV, backed by a full house, were also happy to try their luck. They went all-in and hit the jackpot with a rugby display which has put them joint-top of the table with St Kentigern and St Peter's – and a points differential of plus 64. Sacred Heart were improved from their win a week earlier, always a threat, and led a couple of times in the first half. But some iffy defence and some longshot gambles deep in their own half ultimately cost them, while King's had several aces up their sleeve in the form of first five-eighths Marco Miln, fullback Calvin Harris-Tavita and flanker Johan Schaumkell. King's also had a knack for punishing mistakes. Doing the most damage for King's was Miln, who has over 40 caps in the bank. He ran adroitly and kicked with precision and it was his 50m burst down the left flank that allowed fullback Calvin Harris-Tavita – another key performer – to open the King's account. In one of the best plays of the day, from a ruck just inside the King's half, Miln stepped a confused Sacred defence and when tackled just short of the line was able to flick the ball up to Harris-Tavita. King's College first five-eighths Marco Miln considers his options. Photo / Bruce Holloway Schaumkell was one of King's most consistent performers last season and appears to have lifted his openside game even more, with some piercing runs and strong cover defence. Up front hooker Charlie Burn was on fire and prop Sione Manuopangai was a handful. But Sacred Heart also had their moments. Fullback Max Morgan, who had opened with an early penalty, entered the backline and close to the line had his offload intercepted by a player in an offside position. The result was a penalty try and a yellow card. A Miln penalty made it 10-10 and King's soon regained the lead with numerous phases from a knock-on resulting in a converted try under the posts to Zion Heiloa-Savaka. Another quickly followed as King's ran a clearing kick back, out wide. Sacred Heart kept the ball in hand more in the second spell and a try from a quick tap penalty from flanker Eitikeni Helu brought them back into the game at 21-15. But Miln used the wind well. His kicking kept Sacred pinned in their own territory and desperate to run the ball from everywhere. It soon led to King's overpowering them at a lineout for halfback D'Angelo Tupou to score in the corner. Flanker Johan Schaumkell on the charge for King's College. Photo / Bruce Holloway A real King's highlight was a late try to replacement winger Ollie Anderson to make the game safe. Playing his second match of the day, the lanky speedster seized upon a misdirected pass, kicked down the right wing, and regathered to go over the corner. How they celebrated. And for good measure Miln nailed a tricky conversion before also having the final say with a penalty. Skipper Cruiz Simpson had a huge game at No 8 for Sacred Heart, with some barrelling runs, while Finn Norrie also had his moments on the wing, despite sporting more bandages than an Egyptian mummy. But Sacred suffered from losing vice captain Morgan to a knee injury late in the first half and really need to fine tune their defence. Elsewhere front-rowers did the damage for St Kentigern College as they battled to a 20-15 home win over plucky Liston College to stay top of the table on points differential. There were tries to props D'Angelo Mikaele (2), Riley Grant-Faiva and replacement Sunia Vaka, though they did briefly trail 10-12, shortly after half time. For Liston, second five-eighths William Couper and centre Jonathan Simote scored tries, Max Stocker landed a conversion, and a penalty out in front to fullback Conrad Chaston narrowed the gap to five points. Kelston Boys' High School bounced back from a first-round loss with a 27-10 win over St Paul's College, where the action included a nice try in the corner to winger Blake Bruce, two to No 8 Vunivalu Niupalau and two penalties and three conversions from Max Talbot. Mt Albert Grammar secured a much-needed 24-12 away win over Dilworth School. Try scorers included lock Rico Allen, and first-five Finn McDrury, while for Dilworth there were tries to skipper Fuao Katoa and replacement Sepasetiano Mafi. Auckland Grammar School, fresh from a 35-5 exchange win over New Plymouth Boys' High, beat De La Salle College 58-5, after leading 29-5 at the break. St Peter's College chalked up 47 points for the second successive week in their 47-16 win over Botany Downs Secondary College. Their Mountain Rd derby with Auckland Grammar on Saturday should be a thriller. Auckland 1A draw, Saturday (home team first, all games 2.30pm): St Paul's v King's College; Dilworth v Botany Downs; Mt Albert Grammar v Sacred Heart; Kelston v St Kentigern; Liston v De La Salle; St Peter's v Auckland Grammar. Points: St Kentigern 10, King's College 10, St Peter's 10, Auckland Grammar 9, Kelston 6, Liston 5, Sacred Heart 4, Mt Albert Grammar 4, St Paul's 1, Botany Downs 0, De La Salle 0. Westlake and Rosmini dominate in North Harbour The Kyocera-sponsored North Harbour First XV championship is shaping up the way it normally does – with Westlake Boys' High School and Rosmini College sitting at the top of the table with huge points differentials and the other teams essentially playing for third and fourth spots in the playoffs. Westlake had no problem beating Takapuna Grammar 60-8 – despite coach Rob Mildenhall handing out debuts to halfback Kody Isgrovee, winger Adam Watson, prop Seth Louw and Brody Kirkland – while 11-try Rosmini beat Mahurangi College 67-6. Westlake's rest-and-rotation approach was perhaps a pointer to a big traditional exchange match at home to Tauranga Boys' College on Wednesday. Standout player for Westlake was solid-built Irish exchange student Tom Bolger, who dominated at lock in the first half as his team eased to a 38-5 lead at the break. Then in the second spell he dropped into the Westlake backline, with fellow lock Harry Cornelius left to run things in the tight. For all their dominance, Westlake were methodical but clunky, suffering from unfamiliar combinations. And unusually for Westlake, there was a lot of mauling. Takapuna Grammar never gave up and played with spirit. They didn't get into the Westlake 22 until the 34th minute, but when they did, at least No 8 Blake Sam Tripodi scored. First five-eighths Joaquin Dechiara contributed a try, two penalties and two conversions as Rangitoto College overcame Massey High School 25-19. Massey's tries all came from the front row with sub Hawaiki Moore snaring two and prop Emanuel Taulapapa one. North Harbour draw, Saturday (home team first, all games midday): Mahurangi v Whangarei; Takapuna v Rangitoto; Westlake v Orewa; Massey v Rosmini. Points: Rosmini 10, Westlake 10, Whangarei 5, Rangitoto 5, Mahurangi 4, Massey 1, Orewa 0, Takapuna Grammar 0. Whanganui Collegiate stun St John's College Tafai Ioasa is used to winning – and now the habit may finally be rubbing off on his Whanganui Collegiate first XV. The former All Blacks Sevens captain was part of six New Zealand teams to win the World Sevens Series and in 2006, he was a gold medallist at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games. Then the Hawke's Bay loose forward transitioned successfully into coaching and in 2019, guided Hastings Boys' High School to a National Top Four title and a 17-3 record. Tafai Ioasa on All Blacks Sevens duty in 2020. Photo / Photosport But finding the winning formula with Whanganui Collegiate has proven more challenging. In 2024, Whanganui won just one of nine matches in the central North Island Championship. However on Saturday Whanganui stunned the reigning Taine Randall Cup holders St John's College (Hamilton) 22-20 and captured the Rick Francis Memorial Shield. Ioasa has a new lease on life, and so do his players. 'I think I was too process-driven last year,' Ioasa said. 'I was too quick to give a solution rather than guide the boys to a solution. 'I've learned to teach skills through games and creativity rather than just drilling the same message over and over again. 'In New Zealand, we've always been able to improvise to find solutions. Sometimes we're guilty of getting too bogged down in structure. You've got to generate a love for the game, and I think our style of play this year will help that.' A see-saw contest was settled by Oliver Toohey. The Australian capped a good day for the wingers with a late surge to the corner. Earlier, Jack Amon, who shifted from centre to wing to cover a concussion departure, had scored, as did Lachie Stark, a boarder from Hamilton on debut. St John's scrummaged powerfully and was quick to seize upon turnovers, twice claiming the lead after surrendering it. Whanganui College rugby players hold the Rick Francis Memorial Shield, after beating St John's College (Hamilton). Photo / Supplied 'Our forwards were outstanding. You could throw a blanket over them. It was tit for tat – but when they had to deliver in those final minutes, they did,' Ioasa said. 'I really admire Tony Su'a and what they've done with the St John's programme. They're going through what we went through last year, with a high turnover of players. They'll remain competitive because they've good talent and good systems.' For Whanagnui, being less systematic has been a focus. In an environment where players have more liberty robust second-five, Jonathan Solomona was damaging and loose forward James Old toiled tirelessly and scored a try. 'Ideally, we might have had four or five games by now, but on the flip side, we feel fresh. 'We had a hit out against local high schools and got a hiding from Palmerston North. We were pretty disappointed with our effort against Palmy. We're not going to get too far ahead of ourselves, but there's no shortage of motivation after last season.' Meanwhile, Feilding High School started their Central North Island first XV campaign with a long Friday detour and delay in heavy rain due to a crash on SH3. Eventually, they got the job done with a 26-19 away win over Francis Douglas Memorial College A sharp dart by Peni Havea freed up Kingston Manihera-Dankwa to open the scoring and soon after a big break from Nixon Foreman allowed Tuharakia Wallace-McLeod to dive over. Francis Douglas replied before half-time through a lineout variation that saw Blake Davis surge through to score and make it 12-5. A high tackle saw Rory Gilmour collect an early penalty and bring the home crowd noise to the game. A win against the throw saw FDMC go on the attack and, after a couple of rucks, Gilmour stepped through to score. Feilding trailed 12-19 after a Rory Gilmour try and three penalties, but Wallace-McLeod and Tyrese Tane found a couple of mismatches and scored close to the posts and Foreman converted. Best for Feilding was hard-charging hooker Alani Fakava. His efforts in the final 15 minutes were critical in securing the win. Lindisfarne College beat St Paul's Collegiate 19-10 through tries to Reid Palmer, Noah Rogers, and Fletcher Mackay, while Rogers had two conversions in a match where both teams showed defensive brilliance. St Peter's School (Cambridge) beat Wesley College 31-7 away. Hastings' hot streak ends in Wellington A single defeat in May doesn't define a season, but Hastings Boys' High have a lot to learn after their 18-17 defeat by Wellington College. The visitors were the warmest of favourites to prevail in the capital. So far in 2025, Hastings have conquered the 2024 Auckland, Central North Island, and Wellington champions. By contrast, Wellington were beaten by Tauranga and Napier Boys' High School, and had been outscored 87-7 by Hastings in their previous two meetings. Yet it was Wellington who took the game to their much-vaunted rivals, who appeared unaccustomed to such heat. For Hastings, yellow cards in each half were bad enough, but slapping the ball out of a rival halfback's hands before he'd fed the scrum with five minutes remaining is downright petulant. Wellington were compressed on defence 30 metres shy of their posts. Despite faltering discipline, Hastings nearly won because of their uncanny capacity to hurt their opposition from turnovers or intuitive attacks. When Hastings put everything together, they are one of the best teams in the country. Wellington started with an aggressive cohesion that largely endured. The whole pack was industrious with prop Hyrum Betham, lock Laifone Kamoto, and No 8 Z'Kdeus Schwalger soaring. Wellington's initial punch paved the way for lock Taniela Tuangalu to wriggle over from close range. Hastings centre Triumph Voice was enterprising. In the 23rd minute, his searing outside break restored parity. It was Hastings' first trip inside Wellington's 22. Narvin Campbell applied ingenuity rather than flair in Wellington's reposit. The centre trailed a blistering break by winger Shea Boscher, collecting an in-pass that required him to hit the ground and bounce upwards like Noah Lyles in the starting blocks. The Wellington 22 was a rare destination for Hastings. When Hastings ventured inside, danger loomed for those in black and gold. A try for openside Vincent Kite was alarmingly simple. Upon the resumption, Wellington couldn't breach Hastings. After several minutes of earnest attack, the boot of Archie Sims was employed to chip over a penalty. Such adaptability made sense. Because, despite a cracking try from behemoth tighthead Mone Halaufia romping on the wing, Hastings' relationship with referee Ethan Loveridge continued to sour. Hastings were cut down to size by the arborist when Sims pocketed his second penalty goal from directly in front, 30m out – a success that proved to be a winner on his birthday. Hastings have the chance to atone for their unusually tempestuous display when they clash with St Patrick's College, Town at Evans Bay Park on Wednesday. St Patrick's College, Silverstream overpowered Napier Boys' High School 33-7 in Palmerston North. Co-captain Will Davis and first five-eighths Fletcher Cooper returned for St Pats and made a palpable difference. Silverstream dictated the scrums and a 20m drive for a try from a lineout underscored the Wellington champions' superiority. Cooper and Davis each scored tries and kicked four conversions between them. Vaitupu Vaitupu, Axel Daken and Jahvan Hunt were other try scorers for Silverstream. St Thomas rally Striking the right balance between a mental tune-up and tactical adjustments can be a precarious business for a coach of adolescents. Kieran Coll struck the jackpot with his halftime address for St Thomas of Canterbury College in their 38-34 win over Christ's College in the Miles Toyota Premiership. Trailing 27-10 at the break, St Thomas rallied with four second-half tries to overrun a side Coll predicts will 'go far' in 2025. 'We came out like a deer in the headlights,' he said. 'Christ's were very direct up the middle. They dominated the collisions and caught us on the edge a few times. When they had players in motion, they were a real handful. 'We talk about measuring ourselves in moments of adversity. At halftime, I challenged the boys' mindset while making a couple of small tactical changes. I'm bloody stoked with the way they responded.' Christ's fumbled the second-half restart. With a more assertive attack, St Thomas struck immediately, blindside flanker Bishop Neal scoring his second try. Refined discipline and a more physical 'carry-clean' ensured St Thomas maintained the newfound momentum. Tries to lock Halaifonua Faulao and replacement loose forward Nikora Mata'afa further bridged the gap. Second five-eighths Isaiah Savea claimed the winner. Neal is a talismanic personality and one of New Zealand's hottest rugby league prospects. At the New Zealand Rugby League Grassroots Awards in 2024, he was named Male Junior Player of the Year. Currently rising through the ranks as a member of the Warriors' SG Ball team, the Hornby Panthers product won the Premiership MVP award when St Thomas' successfully defended their national secondary schools title. Meanwhile, Christ's College take away two losing bonus points. Captain Alf Markham, loosehead prop Thomas Hazeldine, and fullback Jackson Grace can hold their head high. Elsewhere, St Bede's College edged St Andrew's College 25-20 for the Wyllie-Earl Shield, named after legendary All Blacks and proud old boys – Alex Wyllie (St Andrew's College) and Andy Earl (St Bede's College). The shield has been contested annually since 2005. Interestingly, Wyille's grandson Finn McLeod helped Christchurch Boys' High School win the 2023 Miles Toyota Premiership. McLeod's alma mater opened their premiership campaign with a 31-15 victory over Shirley Boys' High School. Nelson College hit the ground running, successfully negotiating their first Trustbank Cup defence of 2025 with a 43-12 win over Selwyn Combined. Nelson outscored the visitors seven tries to two with fullback Liam Soper and hooker Jack Potter both celebrating a double. Nelson have won 21 consecutive round-robin matches. Marlborough Boys College showed life for 2024 championship winners, and newly promoted Rangiora High School could be difficult, inflicting a 48-3 defeat upon the newcomers. Big guns unload early in Southern Schools Championship In Dunedin, King's High School were the biggest winners in a lopsided opening round of the Freeman Roofing Southern Schools Rugby Championship. King's slayed Dunstan High School 69-13, with winger Alex Smith bagging a quartet of tries. Highlanders No 8 Max Miller thrived with a double. Otago Boys' High School subdued Southland Boys' High School second XV 55-6. Jack Scott contributed 15 points. No 8 Hendrix Grant has represented his province in age-group union and league. On Wednesday, Southland Boys' stretched their competition winning streak to 11 consecutive matches by overwhelming John McGlashan College 67-19 in their annual, traditional fixture. Luka Salesa, Zeke Siolo and Caleb Harvey each ran rampant with two tries. Jack Brock accumulated 17 points through a try and six conversions The championship is split into three divisions of six schools to ensure competitive matches. Each pool plays a full round robin across five weeks. The winners of the lower-end Blue and Maroon pools will contest a playoff match on Saturday, 14 June, with the winner automatically promoted to Division 1 and the sixth-ranked team from Division 1 being automatically relegated to Division 2. Manurewa are back home Manurewa High School have returned to the Counties Manukau first XV competition after a number of years of playing in North Harbour. On Saturday they beat the Wesley College first XV development team 26-0. On Friday, Pukekohe High School, likely to be Manurewa's strongest opposition, beat Rosehill College 29-3. Meanwhile Tipene St Stephen's School are back in action after a break of more than 20 years, with just year 9 and 10 students currently, but could again be a real force in a couple of years. The original St Stephen's was opened in 1846 and shut down in 2000, having developed a formidable reputation in rugby. Between 1954 and 1994, the St Stephen's first XV enjoyed a dozen unbeaten seasons, winning the National Top Four in 1985 and 1991. They also produced quality players like All Black Dallas Seymour and Māori All Black and Waikato Ranfurly Shield-winning captain Deon Muir. # Readers are invited to send their first XV rugby updates, news snippets and hot takes to nzschoolboyrugby@
NZ Herald
05-05-2025
- Sport
- NZ Herald
First XV rugby: Liston College defeat Kelston in season opener
First XV rugby: Liston win the Battle of the West, St Kentigern's massive victory; Sacred Heart sport some familiar names; Palmerston North-Feilding historic feud eases; all the top nationwide action... By Bruce Holloway and Adam Julian Once-humble Liston College have built on eye-catching preseason form by rolling defending Auckland 1A
NZ Herald
21-04-2025
- Sport
- NZ Herald
First XV rugby: Tauranga's storming preseason; St Kentigern win another Quadrangular, 2024 global school rankings, Hamilton's Sanix Tournament opponents
Bruce Holloway and Adam Julian Tauranga Boys' College have hit the ground running in 2025, despite having a relatively new First XV rugby team with just seven returnees from last season. The defending Super 8 champions have amassed 169 points in four consecutive preseason victories,
