Matamata scores win

COMAG Matamata College 1st XV faced last year’s Top 8 winners HBHS 2nd XV and came away with a well-deserved 18-13 victory.

Matamata started strongly and went into the half time break leading 10-6, thanks to a long range penalty and conversion by Logan Allen as well as a try to captain James Adlington after a strong run.

In the second half some good carries by Steve Edmonds and Ben Brady got Matamata on the front foot and they were well supported by the rest of the forward pack who were strong at the breakdown and were able to force several turnovers.

Allen added another penalty to extend the lead to 13-6. Soon after this Jesse Holdsworth finished off nicely out wide after backs and forwards had combined well, making the score 18-6. Matamata defence was a feature and it wasn’t until the final play of the game that HBHS were able to cross Matamata’s line, making the final score 18-13.

Excellent set phase play by the forwards meant Matamata had plenty of ball, and player of the day Adlington was well supported by the pack. Rhys Dickinson had a good game at halfback and mid fielders Luke Arnold and Alex Thrupp were strong on both attack and defence.

In other games, Matamata 2nd XV lost narrowly 21-19 against St Peters 2nd XV. Chase Pauro played well at first-five. Blake Bottomley and Kere Kaukau also played well.

The Under 15’s travelled to Hamilton to play HBHS White and were beaten 32-19. Jayden Todd, Kerian Holdsworth, Graeson Tanirau and Jared Tuhakaraina all had good games.

Matamata under 14’ s played HBHS U14 B and lost 25-5. Ben Ross, Trinite Ihaka and Andre Te Kani played well.