Rugby: University A beats Alhambra Union 39-24

The powerful student pack dominated the game as University A went on a seven-try jaunt to beat Alhambra-Union at the University Oval.

The students had a bonus point by halftime when they scored four tries to lead 22-12.

The loose trio of Paul Grant, Hoani Matenga and Brad Cameron was a tight unit and made hunks of ground up the centre.

Locks Josh Townsend and Alby Herron were always in support.

Herron was difficult to stop close to the line and was rewarded with two tries.

First five-eighth Chris Noakes showed a touch of class when he scored two first-half tries.

Fullback Matt Faddes had penetration on the counter-attack and David Thompson displayed pace on the wing.

The students sewed up the game with more powerhouse forward play as they scored two more tries in the first 12 minutes of the second spell to lead 34-12.

Alhambra-Union was desperate for the bonus point and scored its fourth try in the last minute when wing Tilitili Puloka scored his second try.

He had scored in the first minute of the game after a perfectly-timed cross kick by fullback Peter Breen.

Pressure from the University forwards forced Alhambra-Union into numerous mistakes, with dropped balls and passing that lacked precision.

University A 39 (Chris Noakes 2, Alby Herron 2, Matt Faddes, David Thompson, Wyatt McKay tries; Noakes con, Tom Halse con), Alhambra-Union 24 (Tilitili Puloka 2, Paula Kinikinilau, Matt Daly tries; Luke Reihana 2 con).

Halftime: University A 22-12.

Referee: Todd Pullar.

 

Add a Comment