The 1st XV played its first white jersey game of the season against the visitors from New Plymouth. This is always a testing encounter with FDMC a team that always plays with heart and positive intent.

The game started well for the home team with three tries scored inside the first fifteen minutes of the back of some aggressive front foot play. FDMC forced their way back into the game with errors creeping into our game and a try in the second quarter closed the gap. Moments of indecision led to more territorial pressure and our defence was tested without faltering.

The second half saw more polish in our attack with opportunities created with some direct running and offloads. Space was identified and there was great intent in trying to get the ball there. More accuracy in this skill execution will be required but the organisation was a level above that which has been showed in previous exchanges. Three more tries were scored and one intercept try was gifted. The final score 36-10.

As in previous matches, the scrum was a dominant force and the kicking strategy meant that we were playing in the right parts of the field. This game showed more gelling of combinations and while there is still work to be done, the confidence and intent shown was certainly pleasing.

Our next game is against Wellington College at the end of the holidays before the Super 8 competition begins next term.

Points Scorers:

Tries:

Lafo Takiari-Ah Ching x 2

Raymond Tuputupu

Tavita Henare-Schuster

Jack Trotter

Curtis Heaphy

Conversions:

Curtis Heaphy x 3