On Saturday we hosted St John’s College 1st XV from Hastings in our Round 2 match of the 2023 CNI Competition. Unlike most of the countries 1st XV fixtures we had very good playing conditions with a warm easterly breeze and sunny conditions.
Playing into the breeze we scored soon after the start via Henele Oliveti, only for St John’s to come straight back at us with a try to Tebs Tangau. Tries to Jack Delaney and Ezrah Hopa-Cribb rounded out our half, with Albert Parker slotting a long range penalty for SJC right on half time. 15-3 at halftime and plenty to play for in the second half.
With the strengthening breeze at our back we wanted to play territory and increase our completion rate. We got off to a cracking start with tries to Jack Delaney and Hoani Herewini-Dygas in the first 10 minutes. Some strong physical play from SJC when we had a player in the bin saw their impressive Number 10 Albert Parker square up the defence and reach through for a try. We finished the scoring with Nickster Jnr Tafolo beating the covering defence to race in.
SJC brought a good physical game with their captain Harry Campbell at halfback having a huge game. Jack Delaney who came on early for an injured Dan Maisiri had a storming match with big tackles and carving runs. Alani Fakava also impressed with his ball running and rock solid defence. 34-13 final score to FAHS.
It was good to share a meal after the match with SJC. We have to remember that they come from an area still doing it tough following the Cyclone and there is no doubt they will know families and friends still affected. Really good bunch of people involved with SJC Rugby and we wish them well for the rest of the season.
This match marked Josiah Johnston’s 40th match for the FAHS 1st XV.
Well done Siah.
FAHS
Jack Delaney 2, Henele Oliveti, Ezrah Hopa-Cribb, Hoani Herewini-Dygas, Nickster Jnr Tafolo tries.
Jack Delaney 2 conversions.
SJC
Tebs Tangau, Albert Parker tries.
Albert Parker penalty.
15 сен 2024
