Westlake ‘man up’ for narrow victory

WESTLAKE ROSMINI 22 20

FACING a 12 point deficit at halftime, Westlake’s coaches urged their team to ‘‘man up’’ and second-five Curtis Reid answered the call.

The tall, powerful runner scored 17 points as Westlake produced an outstanding performance to snatch a narrow victory in what was a highly entertaining game. The first half belonged to Rosmini. A smart kicking game and well organised forward rushes earned Rosmini a well deserved halftime lead. Rosmini kept the ball close to the ruck and used their powerful forwards to gain field position.

They won the ruck and maul count by 55-30, as prop Philip Meki and Number 8 Teague Mcelroy, in particular, worked tirelessly.

Rosmini halfback Joseph Hasler was excellent as well. A quick tap from a penalty saw him score a fine try and his precise passing and kicking provided good impetus for Rosmini throughout.

Hasler was replaced in the second half and this, plus Westlake’s greater hunger, were key factors in the form reversal. Westlake won the ruck and maul count by 44-19 as their forwards, led by flanker Ruben Esterhuyse, played more abrasively.

However, it was Reid who was the true star. His work rate was excellent as he searched for work around the forward exchanges and his ability to break tackles proved telling. Two forceful fends led directly to his two tries.

Other standouts in this tough and entertaining match were Westlake halfback Sean Law who grew in stature throughout and Rosmini’s lightly built fullback Ben-hyatt Brown who well and truly punched above his weight!

Westlake have now won 11 games out of 11 this season, including games on an unbeaten Canadian tour, outscoring their opponents, 823-92.