The 1stXV travelled to Marlborough after a strong pre-season where we were unbeaten in matches against Oak Hill, (Sydney) Waitaki Boys' and John McGlashan College.

This year’s team has a youthful look about it with three Y11’s in the starting pack, but has some experienced strength in the backline.

As expected the Marlborough Boys' College were physical and had the support of their whole school (who joined in on the haka) spurred them onto an early lead.

Our lads fought back with well worked tries out wide to wingers Ashton Kelso and Liam Collins but the Marlborough Boys', who enjoyed a sizeable penalty count advantage, were able to close us out and take the win.

We celebrated our many debutants at the after-match, Apa Rennie earned his tie and Harry Burke, Dontae and Denzel Siaki received their caps. Kaizen Morris’s food consumption had to be managed as bus travel doesn’t agree with him.

There were many good signs from the Spartans with Atkinson, Kelso, Burgess and the Siaki brothers all looking strong this season.

Follow our progress on the sbhsspartansport Instagram account and get down and show your support!