Auckland Bs (men)

A 43-31 win for the Auckland Bs over the weekend over our northern neighbours, North Harbour. Ranga had Oscar Cowley-Andrea and Tane Dunn in the starting line up, with Moses Hafoka and George Sims on the bench – George called into the squad early last week.

Auckland scored four tries in the first half and led throughout the match. Oscar had another strong outing, Moses came off the bench in the loose forwards while Tane was, as always, physically dominant in the midfield. George’s selection is great recognition after a great season, he played well off the bench.

Auckland Under 85kg

The 85s continued their winning ways, claiming the Northern Region title with a 51-12 win over Counties Manukau.

Of the nine tries, five were scored by Ranga lads, with Jamie Petford nabbing a hatrick in a man-of-the-match performance, and Josh Andrew dotting down twice.

The players return their attention to the Under 85kg National Club Cup this weekend with the Panthers back in action.

Auckland Under 19s

The Under 19s were back in the winner’s circle on Saturday, beating Harbour 19-17. Ranga has five players in the side, Harlyn Saunoa scoring in the first half to contribute to the early lead and Lotu Finau dotting down in the second half.

Auckland Under 18 South East (girls)

Four of the Pak young girls headed out to Waitemata to take on rep footy on Saturday. For Mia Makoare, Madison Fennessy and Alana Baker, it was their first match in the blue and white hoops.

Mia and Eden Mika have 15s experience through the Belles, but for Madison and Alana, it was trial by fire from the 10s they are used to.

Eden played a full match at flanker and was the chief enforcer up front, Madison started at lock and impressed at scrum time (her first time playing contested scrums). Mia played a full 70 on the right wing and was a big piece of a back three that looked lively whlie Alana came off the bench to make some big tackles and carried well with ball in hand. 

Considering 13 of the 31-person squad was unavailable, and many of the players have limited 15s experience, they went within a sniff of winning the match, only going down 17-22.

Pictured: Mia Makoare

Article added: Wednesday 11 September 2024