Tiger’s Rugby U15 have started this year’s Canterbury Community Rugby U15 competition in great form.

The first competition game was against Cashmere at Hoon Hay Park in some outstanding conditions for fast paced action. The spectators were not disappointed, with some great rugby played by both teams. A tight first half, finished with scores 17-12 to Hillmorton, was simply down to some great defence epitomised by 3 try saving tackles by our fullback, Taine. Second half however was an all-out Tiger attack. All the hard defensive work paid off and enabled the Tigers to finish well on top. Final score, 39-12 to Hillmorton.

The second game was played in much different conditions. With the big storm looming, the sky was a brooding grey with a light drizzle. Little did Merivale-Papanui know that Franco was brooding after 3 years having not played rugby. A four try blitz by Franco off the back of some outstanding play by the forwards, to provide clean, fast ball and the inside backs who recognised where the space was. Although, one of Franco’s tries was pure individual brilliance – a 100 m solo effort! Dian was in commanding form providing that lightning quick ball, and Jirah was immense, leading the physical battle with some barnstorming runs. Final score 46-5 to Hillmorton.

Last weeks game was again at home on the No. 1 Field at Hoon Hay Park against CBHS B. Under another grey sky, but this time no rain. While the paddock was soft and lush, everyone got very muddy. This game was beset with a number of setbacks for the Tiger’s. A yellow card early on and then, our Captain, Levi, injured his ankle badly. Then Franco had to depart due to his shoulder not playing the game. However, half-time score was 5 all. Second half the injuries continued, with the engine room, Ethan and Zane, having to leave the field due to injuries. However, despite players having to play in unusual positions and Micah coming off his sick bed to play, the Tigers stuck to the game plan and could’ve pulled off a third win on the trot if not for a few vital handling errors at crucial moments. Final score 10-15 to CBHS. James led the team well in Levi’s absence and Waitai, playing his first game at 10, piloted the cutter with aplomb.