Blues win record fifth consecutive Paul Potiki Shield
The Marist St Pats Blues have completed an undefeated season after beating rivals Tawa Titans 6-3 in their Under 85kg Division One final at Evans Bay Park (video highlights below). The victory gives them a record fifth consecutive title in this grade.
On a sunny afternoon, the heavyweights of the lightweight grade played out an 'arm wrestle' worthy of a final between to grades most consistent sides.
After trading blows in the first half, the Blues found themselves down 0-3 at oranges. Turning with the wind at their backs the boys stepped it up a notch and enjoyed long periods in the Tawa half.
Two Tawa yellow cards, for a dangerous tackle and repeated infringements while the Blues were relentlessly attacking their line, helped keep the pressure on. In a try-less final, the Blues came closest to scoring in the 68th minute but a knock on was adjudged by the referee.
In the end it was two calm penalties slotted by first five Mark Houghton that gave the Blues their record win. Congratulations to coach Andrew Robinson and the team on another stellar season!
Reds fall in last few minutes
In the earlier Division Two final, the Reds fell in the last few minutes 15-16 to Wellington.
After making all the play in the first half the Reds found themselves up 15-6 at half time courtesy of two tries to Matt Horgan.
The boys fought valiantly to extend that lead but Wellington managed to hold them out and then enjoyed a long period of possesion and territory in the last 15 minutes.
The Reds line repelled a number of wave before letting in two tries in the last 10 minutes. A long range penalty just before full time fell short and the game was over.
Despite the heartbreak for the boys, they can hold their heads high and be proud of the performance they played in this final. All supporters on the sideline were impressed with the quality of their play and commented how they have done our club proud.
MSP Supporters
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