Waitaki Boys’ captain Ned Newlands-Carter (centre) lifts the Leo O’Malley Trophy after beating St Kevin’s College 39-17 on Saturday. PHOTO: KAYLA HODGE Ned Newlands-Carter had some day out. The Waitaki Boys’ High School captain stood where many of his family members have before to etch his name in history. He led his side to a convincing 39-17 victory over St Kevin’s College in the interschool clash, known as the Blood Match, at Milner Park, and earned his 50th cap. ‘‘It’s surreal,’’ Newlands-Carter said. ‘‘We always talk about legacy in this game and going back to all my uncles, and granddads, everyone playing in it, and how much work goes into this week. ‘‘How much passion is shown from all the old boys, all our coaches, everyone that knows this game. ‘‘You see how it brings the community together. It’s such a good feeling.’’ The No 8 was thrilled to earn his 50th cap — presented by his father and Waitaki Boys’ coach Shane Carter — but praised his support network for helping him reach the milestone. ‘‘I’ve just got to give props to my coaches back in year 10 giving me a shot and then now — what a moment to fall on. ‘‘I’m so thankful for my team-mates and everyone around me.’’ Waitaki Boys’ struck first through Ike Newlands-Carter, Ned’s younger brother, and Chase Kennedy. Fullback Kouper Lynch converted his own try from a 30m dash to get St Kevin’s on the board. Waitaki Boys’ prop Eikilau Toutai extended the lead, St Kevin’s centre Kenton Tokai dragged over several defenders to hit back, and Waitaki Boys’ held a 19-14 lead at halftime. Lynch banged over a penalty to open the second half for St Kevin’s to trail by two. But then it was one-way traffic for Waitaki Boys’. Angus Isbister scored from a chargedown, Kennedy nabbed his second with some silky footwork and Cash Paterson put the game to bed, scoring in the corner. Harry Mavor added a penalty to round out the victory. It is Waitaki’s third consecutive year retaining the Leo O’Malley Trophy, known as the Peanut. They won outright in 2024 and retained the trophy after a 19-19 draw last year. In the Southern Schools Rugby Championship, Otago Boy’s 1sts held off John McGlashan 1sts 17-14, and Southland Boys’ 1sts beat beat King’s 1sts 45-10. Hokonui Combined thumped King’s 2nds 46-0, Mt Aspiring beat Cromwell 21-5, Taieri College beat Timaru Boys’ 2nds 24-15, and Otago Boys’ 2nds beat Dunstan 34-5.
