Game 2 in the WCSS 1st XV Rugby Series was a close thriller in very damp conditions!
It was a damp old day at John Sturgeon Park with the rain coming down consistently throughout the game making for some tricky conditions at times for those on the field. After a strong showing in the first game the boys were keen to take on our local rivals of John Paul II who are full of talented players. Both teams took turns with position early in the first half but our Captain Reuben Taylor was first on the board getting over for a try, and Connor Green added the extra two points about 20minutes into the game. Both teams were giving nothing away making for a tight game in very wet conditions. Some poor discipline from JPII gave GHS a kicking opportunity right in front. Level headed and smart decision making from GHS to take the penalty, which Green slotted over not long before half time, stretched that slim lead out which is these conditions is very important to keep the scoreboard ticking over.
HALF TIME: GHS 10 - JPII 0
It was a tough and gritty second half from both teams as GHS was only holding onto a small 10 point lead. Poor discipline from JPII again allowed us to have another shot on goal and replacement kicker Griffin Thomas did not miss, which took the lead out to 13 - 0. JPII got in for their first try of the game to Zeb Thompson as the used a good overlap on the wing, but the couldn't add the extra points. Unfortunately we picked up a yellow card taking us down to 14 players, but some solid defence and composure from our team didn't allow JPII to capitalise too much. JPII only got in for a single uncovered try to Thompson getting a double. Not long after we were restored to 15 players, the team did well to ensure no extra points where allowed in and it showed how hard GHS were working to keep the JPII team at bay. No other points were scored after this one close to the final whistle. It is another win in the books for the Grey High 1st XV side! Tighter game for the team but game like this keep you on the edge of your seat, congratulations team and Coaches Bermingham and McTaggart.
FULL TIME: GHS 13 - JPII 10
Thank you very much to our officials referee Quinton __ and AR's Rob Maitland and Will England. Always appreciate these people volunteering their time or else games like these cannot happen.
Alyssa Blacktopp was on hand again to capture the boys in action on a very wet day, thank you so much for taking so many great snaps below.
NEXT and FINAL GAME: Wednesday 23rd Sept, vs Westland HS in Hokitika, 12pm kickoff.