The Hastings Auto Shoppes Premier team played Bridge Pa, at Elwood Park and came away with a comfortable win scoring 10 tries in the process. However, it was not as impressive as the score might suggest as Bridge Pa had long periods of strong defense which was probably helped by our attack being too direct and not using the width of the field
We led 24 – 5 at halftime and ran out winners with 6 more tries in the second half. Lock forward, Max Gomez, had a strong game and was in the midst of the forward exchanges all match. Tomasi Naicegulevu defended well at second five and was rewarded with two tries.
JJ Lilo-Iosefo had another barnstorming game at hooker and picked up 2 tries to take his season tally 7. It was good to see Hawkes Bay Magpie, Neria Fomai, come off the bench in the second half as he missed most of the first round. Oscar Sowman had another strong game at full-back scoring 2 tries and 6 conversions and is the top scorer in club rugby with 127 points.
This week the Premiers have a break for Kings Birthday weekend. The four Saturdays in June will be very interesting as all the remaining games will be like “TEST MATCHES” and crucial to aim for a semi- final spot.
Final Score: HRS 62 – Bridge Pa 10
Point Scorers – John Lameko 2, Tomasi Naicegulevu 2, JJ Lilo-Iosefo 2, Oscar Sowman 2, Perez Malo, Jordan Thompson-Dunn, tries, Oscar Sowman 6 conversions.
POD Points: Max Gomez 3 points, Tomasi Naicegulevu 2, JJ Lilo-Iosefo 1 point.
