Hi Everyone,

A lovely fine Saturday made it pleasant for watching rugby, particularly sitting in the stand at the University Oval.

Otago Mitre 10 Cup: Last Friday, I had the privilege of congratulating the players who were having their first game for the Province. In total there were seven players making their debut - Tom Hill, Sione Misiloi, Dylan Nel, Sam Dickson, Finn Strawbridge, Matt Whaanga and Taylor Haugh. All debutants handled the occasion well and did themselves and their team proud. Included in the team who played against Wellington were six players who are currently in the ORFU Academy Programme. We now look forward to an improved performance this Friday night, 5.45pm kick off, when the team will play Hawkes Bay.

Secondary School Play Offs: On Saturday there were two games played at 1^st XV level to decide the finalists for the Highlanders Secondary Schools Representative. Down in Invercargill, Southland Boys High School went out to an early lead with two tries and late in the second half John McGlashan College replied with an unconverted try to make the half-time score 15-5. In the second half Southland ran in three unanswered tries to make the final score 42-5.

On Littlebourne it was a similar scoreline, with Otago Boys High School defeating Waitaki Boys High School by 43-0. OBHS scored some fine team tries particularly through their classy back line. However, Waitaki never gave up and held the ball through a number of phases but could not get across the line.

This Saturday will see Otago Boys HS and Southland Boys HS match up on Littlebourne. This will decide the team that will represent the Highlanders Region to play the Crusaders winner for a place in the Top 4.

National Under 19 Competition: In the opening round of the National Under 19 Competition, Otago and Canterbury matched up at the University Oval on Saturday in absolutely ideal conditions.  The Canterbury team went out to an early lead but to Otago’s credit they fought back well to be down 17-31, however two late tries to Canterbury made the final score 45-17. Otago will now play Tasman this Saturday in Dunedin and needs to win to qualify for the top eight of the National Competition.

Green Island Prize Giving: It was a real privilege to attend the Green Island end of year prize giving on Saturday night, where there was an excellent turnout and a wonderful atmosphere. Highlight of the night was undoubtedly the presentation to the Senior Team on winning the banner this year. Considering they had to travel to Kaitangata to play the semi-final against Crescent and then meet an in form Kaikorai side in the final, this was a great effort. Of note this season was the formation a Womens team in the club, adding another dimension to involving the whole community. This would be Green Island’s best season across all grades for a number of years – well done to all involved.

Des Smith MNZM   

President

Article added: Tuesday 28 August 2018