To celebrate 100 years since our first meeting on the rugby field, the school hosted a Centenary Match against Te Aute

To celebrate 100 years since our first meeting on the rugby field, the school hosted a Centenary Match against Te Aute on Saturday on the number one field. The Rector's XV was made up of young men from across the school's senior rugby teams (1st - 6th XVs) along with a couple of U16 and U15 players. Many of the team had family connections to the Boys' High/Te Aute rivalry - whanau who had played for the 1st XV against Te Aute, or who had attended Te Aute and played against PNBHS.

After a stirring haka from both sides, the match began brightly with both teams playing with positive intent. The Rector's XV struck first and despite strong defence from Te Aute were able to penetrate out wide on a number of occasions. 1st five-eighth Thomas Kirk ran the cutter well with astute tactical kicking and excellent distribution. Captain and loosehead prop Tiwha Rukuwai made several powerful surges and was well-supported by his forward pack and before long the Rector's XV were able to score a number of tries, taking a sizeable lead into the half-time break.

Te Aute came storming back into the game in the second half and exerted considerable pressure on the Rector's XV defence but were unable to break through. Three further tries were added in the second stanza to complete a fine performance. Prop Johnny Neemia made several telling bursts and was unlucky to be held up over the try-line by several Te Aute defenders. The match was played in fine spirit and the scoreline did not reflect how competitive it was.

Tries were scored by Thomas Kirk (2), Tom Greig (2), Tamati Durie-McGrath, Lawrence Leung-Wai, Kees Greig, Tiaan Greig, Angus Lyver, Kalem Tanoa and Maraki Aumua. Maraki kicked two conversions and Thomas Kirk five.

PNBHS 69 Te Aute 0

It was a privilege to host Te Aute and to commemorate 100 years of shared history and tradition. The day was less about the rugby than it was about the relationship between our two schools and it was great to see the large number of supporters from both PNBHS and Te Aute at the match and at the aftermatch function at College House. A special thanks to Old Boy, former 1st XV player and PNBHS staff member Bruce Hemara for coaching the team.