Nelson post big win over Buller

Captain Luke Kilworth contributed 32 points as Nelson overwhelmed Buller 69-7 on day two of the Seddon Shield Districts primary schoolboys rugby tournament in Westport yesterday.

Playing at second five-eighth, Kilworth scored four of the team’s 11 tries, two in each half, and kicked six conversions as Nelson produced a dominant performance in wet and slippery conditions.

Following the first day bye, Nelson had raced to a commanding 24-7 halftime lead as fullback Nick Davidson and flanker Caleb Scott also scored tries. Buller’s only response was a try to their halfback Flynn Aldridge, which he converted himself.

There was no let up by Nelson in the second half as they produced a further six tries, Kilworth and winger Fletcher Hewitt-Smart each scoring braces, leaving props Ethan Swann and Sam Lama and winger Coby Springer to complete the tally.

What began as another forward-oriented encounter eventually swung irreversibly in Nelson’s favour as their dominance at the breakdown enabled them to move the ball wide and at pace.

Buller’s defence had no answer as Kilworth in particular highlighted his penetrative attacking skills. Nelson No 8 Tayne Hemopo also carried strongly and often, with hooker Noah Orlowski named Nelson’s player of the day.

In the late game, Marlborough also cruised to a comprehensive 49-0 win over West Coast to complete their second straight win of the tournament.

Marlborough ended the match with nine tries after leading 22-0 at the break.

Nelson and Marlborough were set to meet in today’s key clash, with Golden Bay-Motueka facing West Coast in the late game.