19/06/2021
First XV - STC 50 vs Mid Canterbury 19
The "Lion" went hunting in Ashburton and lions work in packs of two and three. STC planned to hunt as a group with utmost respect for the opposition and excitement for this game.
A "pride" of lions was evident in the St Thomas team on Ashburton Show Grounds. With a slightly shuffled pack our defence wavered in the first half at times with the prey turning the tables on the hunters. In the first half we could be accused of being too passive in our physical plans.
When we started to run it straight Mid Canterbury couldn't hold us back. Fine got a hat-trick of trys today to lift him to top points scorer for the team. On attack we played quick which was more impressive. Clean-outs were needed and these initiated more intensity to the game and we were back in the hunt.
At one stage it was 12 all and our opposition had their heads up only to be taught a few lessons in structured play. Half time 24 to 12.
The second half saw a strong bench delivering the points to the scoreboard. The return of Aubrey Gilmour with excellent long range kicking was great to see. Finn Keogan, out since pre-season, was strong again in the backline.
A moment to mention was the forward try from Sergel ... in the right place and doing his job securing a nice low body position try. Richie made an immediate impact and swatted the opposition aside to score some excellent trys.
I have to comment on how frustrating it was, however, behind the line or on the sideline. With wonderful tackles and takes in the air that magically turned into knock-ons or penalties against us. I often thought of Barclay from a few years ago being red-carded from the field by the referee. I only hope no-one lip-read my comments at times!
We kept the prey from scoring a bonus point and finished with a pleasing 50 points to 19. Five points in the bag and at the top of the table. Eight trys and 5 conversions made our 50 points. It was a successful hunt in Ashburton that blooded a few players in starting positions and has allowed coaches an excellent platform to move to next week's battle versus CBHS.
Trys: Fine Vaingalo X3, Finley Esera, Ritchie Tupuailei X2, Maretino Kaloudau and Max Sergel-Stringer.
Conversions: Noah Harmer-Campbell X2, Aubery Gilmour X3
Cheers Biggsie.
