Fa’amalosi Tiger’s Rugby U14 played CBHS on a lush, sloping paddock at South Hagley Park on Saturday morning. Despite a score of 43-17 to a very deserved CBHS team, the Fa’amalosi Tiger’s, produced some great footy and CBHS, in the end, had to work hard for their win.

Team: Mikaele, Isley, Carter, Lorenzo, Ethan, James, Duke, Zane, Max, Micah, Kaleb, Kuonga, Levi, Godwin, Taine. Subs: Junior, Chucky, M’Jade

Forward of the Day: James Quinn

Back of the Day: Micah Chivers

In the first half, CBHS starved the Fa’amalosi Tiger’s of any ball and raced out to a 17-0 lead after only 10 minutes. However, as always, Fa’amalosi Tiger’s showed great character and started to secure their own ball, and the try-fest was halted in its tracks. With more ball and a tenacious defensive effort, the second half improved for the Fa’amalosi Tiger’s, with a second half score line of 17-12 to HHS.

The Fa’amalosi Tiger’s three tries came off sustained pressure where they held on to the ball in multiple phases and got themselves in the CBHS half. Then off lightning quick ball created by great forward drives, first Carter, then Kaleb and finally Levi, each showing absolute determination, exploded through the defence and were unstoppable to the try line. The whole team was instrumental in each try, but special mentions to Zane, who is a tower of hard work, and Micah who is an absolute terrier.

The CBHS side are a very good team, no doubt about it, but the Fa’amalosi Tiger’s players and supporters can be well pleased with the character, industriousness and enthusiasm that was on display from the team. There is much to look forward to as the season progresses.

Ka Rawe, Fa’amalosi Tiger’s

Turangawaewae – belonging/a place to stand

Whanaungatanga – interconnectedness/positive relationships

Mana – respect/strength of character

Ako – learning/with and from each other