The Pakuranga Turbos, many of whom have played together since under 5 rippa, has seen the team step up into the big time of Pool A in under 11 restricted for 2023 – thanks to some quality additions and slimmed down returnees from open grade for the season.

Currently the Turbos are sitting at 5 wins and 5 losses for 2023 and this week saw a tough task with a battle of the east against University All Blues. The Turbos, depleted by illness, players returning from long injury and some taking advantage of the school holidays, played a tough game in the spirit of running rugby with heavy defence from both sides. The Turbos were rocked by a couple of quick fire tries from the All Blues in the first half, but fought back through teamwork, determination and willing forward play, punctuated by a real battle at the breakdown The second half saw a real arm wrestle with the flowing backs only stopped by terrific last-ditch tackling from the All Blues. The teams traded tries, until the fight back was killed off by some impressive attack by the away side.

A great game of rugby on a crisp, clear day at Lloyd Elsmore, played in a good spirit against a tough rival. Player of the day was Kayden Van Niekerk – putting the hard yards in the dark of the rucks and tackling like a man possessed. A stand out contribution from Jason Conradie – coming out of the forwards into the backline for the second stanza to score a try and make several deep bursts from broken play. Unfortunately, Kyan Norton – returning from a badly broken arm – suffered an injury during play and the Turbos wish him a speedy recovery to the field of battle.

Final score 37-10.

Article added: Tuesday 18 July 2023