43-19 win

The 1st XV had their first game this week at Kororo against Westland High School. Despite the opposition having a size advantage, John Paul flew out to a great start, scoring four tries in the first 20 minutes, including a brace to Mikaere Whitcombe. Poor discipline and a focus on chahoo-ing compounded the visitors' problems with the first of their two yellow cards being shown early on. Sam Brenmuhl was strong from the tee, including a sideline conversion against a crosswind. New combinations from there saw Cameron Dodds cross for two more tries, pushing the score out to 36-7 at half time, despite losing Beau Swinburn to the sin bin ourselves.

The second half saw many people playing out of position and served as a good test for Netana Karana, Lofa Leleifua and Ben Giles in an all-Year 11 front row. Leo Whitcombe and Mac Gibson continued to run the show from 9 and 10, with Leo Smith scoring an outstanding individual try from the back of a scrum 25 meters out. The final score of 43-19 reflected John Paul's domination in the face of Westland's fight.

Callum Donaldson was named as player of the day for his persistent tackling and strong running that led to several line breaks. Our next game against Greymouth High School in two weeks will prove to be a much bigger challenge, with the players determined to back up this performance with another strong showing.