Backs run riot at Porirua

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Backs run riot at Porirua

- March 28, 2009

Images of the Avalon game courtesy of Chris Clifton

As it was predicted by many, a new look Randwick Meats Petone Rugby team was far too strong for an Avalon unit that had no answer to Petone's fast pace game, running out winners by 86-9 and in the process retaining the Morgan Family Trophy.

Once the mobile Petone pack took control it was the Petone backs that took over to run in some very sweet tries.

The young backline with Fraser Middleton scoring four tries, three coming in the first fifteen minutes and Lewis Marshall in outstanding form, showed it could be an exciting year for the supporters out in the Village. Greg Walker and new halfback Curtis McLean both added a brace of tries.

It was Middleton however who caught the eye with the stocky winger showing he has blistering pace. This was one of Middleton’s first games on the wing in competition rugby and he is more comfortable in the fullback role.

Whilst today’s starting backline was young the substitutions used also showed that it will be a horses for courses type of year for the Coaches Ross and Green with experienced players like Cam Incledon and Corey Burt there to bolster the backline in matches where experience is the difference between a win and a loss.

The selection at first five through the season will be an interesting one with Hayden Cripps in the first half then Corey Burt in the second adding their own bit of class to the match.

The Petone forwards were far too strong and organised for an Avalon pack that started full of fire but once the Blue pack gained ascendancy it was always going to be one-way traffic.

The pack chipped in with only one try of their own to Tiso Saolele however they completely dominated Avalon at lineout and scrum time, giving the backs the platform and all the time they need to weave their magic. The loose ball was quickly jumped on by any one of the fifteen players on the field at the time with Api Sione and Mateaki Kafatolu not far from the ball all day.

It is unfortunately going to be a long season for Avalon, who showed plenty of enthusiasm early but fielded a lot of players who will struggle at this level.

The Petone team appeared to have a better grasp off the new ELV’s after using a top Wellington referee at training during the week to explain the finer points.

The Senior 1st team had a tough assignment first up against the strong Rimutaka team and showed tremendous spirit and skill to win 19-17.

With vastly experienced campaigners like Tom Tupuivao, Jonathan Cleland, Shaun Mahoney, Jim Morgan and Cam Incledon in the side it was always going to be a competitive unit.

Joining Coach Martin Pupuke and Manager Lisa Davis in the management group this season are club Centurions Mike ‘Double O’ Woollett as backs' coach and Paul ‘Bear’ Baker as Co-Manager. These two guys will help restore the historic pride that was always evident of ‘B’ sides in the past.

Today’s result will also go along way to restoring that Pride as well.

There is no doubt a lot to work on for all our coaches, with a tough assignment ahead against Norths next week at home. These points will be addressed this week at training.

The WRFU Gala was a great success, played under blue Autumn skies with some excellent rugby on display in all of the games played out a Porirua.

The Ladies team also started their season in style at the Women’s gala day in Wainuiomata with a 74-5 win over a Poneke team that is new to the competition and contained a lot of girls new to this level. Petone showed they will again be a competitive combination. We still have room for more girls in this squad, if you would like to play or know anyone who might please contact the club.

Points scorers in Premier game:
Petone 86: Fraser Middleton 4, Greg Walker 2, Curtis McLean 2, Michael Schmidt-Lealava’a, Cameron Incledon, Sam O’Leary, Lewis Marshall, Tiso Saolele tries, Hayden Cripps 5 con, 1 pen, Corey Burt 4 con.

Avalon 9: Stephen Cross 3 pen.

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