No argument, Teachers in a different class
THE verdict is in from the Maori All Blacks – their Test cousins have a job on their hands next week against the British and Irish Lions.
Colin Cooper’s troops came off second- best in their tussle with the Lions on Saturday, going down 32- 10 in Rotorua after halfback Tawera KerrBarlow’s second- half yellow card swung all momentum towards the Test selection.
Down by just five points at Kerr- Barlow’s sin- binning, the Maori conceded two quick tries – both on the back of set pieces – to kill off the contest. Their ill- discipline at the breakdown also hurt them, conceding 15 penalties and six penalty goals to the reliable boot of Leigh Halfpenny.
Cooper told reporters his side simply couldn’t overcome the Lions’ territorial dominance, with strategic kicking keeping them pinned back.
He predicted the Warren Gatland- coached Lions would make life difficult for the All Blacks in next weekend’s first Test at Eden Park, but only if they stick to the bustling, upthe- guts style that has worked for them so far.
“I don’t think there’ll be much change on what we experienced out there – the good scrum, lineout drive and aerial attack,” Cooper said. PREMIERS Teachers West sent a message to the chasing pack in the TDRU on the weekend with a thumping 33- 0 win over second- placed Brothers.
Teachers were far too good in front of their home supporters at “The Kennel” in Currajong as they gained a measure of revenge over Brothers for handing them their only loss earlier in the season.
A double from inspirational No. 8 Kit Horwood helped set the tone for the two- time defending champions and coach Terry Shiells was delighted to have the Englishman back in his line- up after he missed some time early in the season.
“Having a Queensland Country player back playing club footy for us is terrific,” Shiells said.
“He came back into our squad after we had some injuries and he’s been excellent.
“He offers a lot to our team on and off the field. He is a great talker, his leadership is good and he’s someone who inspires and encourages the boys.”
Tries to second- rower Seamus Huppatz, fly- half Josh Fletcher and skipper Gene Morgan sealed the shutout as Teachers extended their lead atop the TDRU ladder.
Teachers were joined in the winner’s circle by Ross River this week by sneaking home against a gallant Charter’s Towers Bulls side 30- 27 in the early Saturday game at Mike Carney Toyota Park.
Charters Towers continue to improve in their first season back in the top grade but they were unable to get home against the solid Redskins outfit.
In the round’s other fixture, the North Ward Old Boys got home 25- 21 in a tight one against 2016 runners- up Burdekin.
North Ward outscored the Canetoads four tries to two in their triumph and they again showed how dangerous they can be when they produce their best.