Match Report: Waikato Under 20s vs Auckland
18th September 2011 11:00AM
Waikato Under 20s: 12
Auckland Under 20s: 26
Halftime score: 8-7 to Auckland.
Waikato point scorers:
Tries: Sefo Setephano, Glen Robertson
Conversions: Nate George
Fine conditions but windy with some showers at Waitemata RFC, Auckland.
First Half:
It was a stong start to the match by Waikato, withstanding everything Auckland through at them. There was some good display of rugby from both sides, therefore it took midway through the first half before Auckland scored a penalty to make it 3-nil. Nate George was dominating with his boot finding the touch line, which in turn set Waikato up for a good forward drive from a line out within the Auckland 22, Sefo Setephano going over for the try, converted by George in a very strong cross wind making it 7-3 Waikato .It was pushing close to half time and Auckland charged down a kick resulting in a try, missing conversion making it 8-7 at the break.
Second Half:
The second half started with a powerful run by hooker Setephano linking up well with the backs who where running well but only to be shut down by a strong Auckland defence. Auckland started to build points from Waikato’s mistakes picking up two penalties , then just when Waikato was building up some good passage of play, Auckland came back with a converted try to their winger, sneaking the score out to a 21-7 lead. A few minutes later replacement half back Haami Martin made a great break up the middle of the field , off loading to the backs , then going to ground. Quick ball out to George who then crossed kicked over to Glen Robertson to go in for a well deserved try. Conversion was missed leaving the score at 21-12. There was still time on the clock and Waikato were putting some big efforts in only to be knocked back again by a give-me try ending the game 26-12.
Outstanding Players/Moments in the Match:
Eli Atkins in the rucks and mauls and defence once again, Glenn Robertson in the midfield, and Sefo Setephano at hooker with some busting runs. Nate George dominated with the boot and Daniel Ross was strong in the scrums and round the paddock.
