Sevens Venture to Glenfield
Saturday, 27 February 2010
NORTHCOTE SEVENS
RUGBY
VENTURES TO GLENFIIELD
Northcote-Birkenhead Rugby Club fielded a strong team in the annual Glenfield Sevens Tournament run on a hot day at
Kaipatiki
Park
on Saturday 13 February.
Wanting to make a strong statement as a prelude to the 2010 rugby season, the team consisted primarily of premier players from the successful 2009 season.
Just beaten in the semi-final 7-10 by a resilient Ponsonby team, Northcote almost achieved its goal of making the final leading 7-5 with less than a minute remaining on the clock. The turning point of the game then arrived with Northcote coughing up possession 5 metres out form its own try line following a set phase scrum. This mistake was all that Ponsonby needed, scoring the winning try from the ensuing play.
The team had a number of players who stood out, including Mike Harris (the squad’s overall player of the day), Richard Mayhew and debutante James Doyle (just out of
Rosmini
College
).
Willi Whetton was dominant in the air contesting kick offs. He was ably supported by an aggressive Theo Hermans.
The backline was well marshalled by half back Matty Marwick. Tyler Dill-Russell and Brock Mustard, both on debut for Northcote also impressed with ball in hand.
Paceman and Captain Ben Whitley had little opportunity to shine, unlike earlier tournaments.
In the run up to the semis Northcote beat Glenfield 24-12, North Harbour Marist 22-10 and Helensville 24-0.
The team scored a total of 13 tries on the day, of which Michael Harris bagged 5, Willi Whetton 2 with 1 each being scored by Ben Whitley, Matty Marwick, Richard Mayhew, Tyler Dill-Russell, James Doyle and Brock Mustard.
Coached by Lee Maihi and Scott Rinkin, managed by Glen Whitley and Simon Williamson; the team enjoyed the day, albeit were disappointed not going all way.
The tournament was ultimately won by an impressive Massey side who over powered Ponsonby in a high scoring final.
Thanks to John Wildermoth and Pats Garage for the sponsorship. Also a big thanks is extended to physios Pete Matheson and John Love who gave up their Saturday to help.
The full squad in alphabetical order was…
Tyler Dill-Russell, James Doyle; Michael Harris, Theo Hermans, Matty Marwick, Michael Mayhew, Richard Mayhew, Brock Mustard, Dane Pablecheque, Brad Tibbits, Willi Whetton, Ben Whitley (c),
On standby were- Kaz Adams, Kieran Menzies, Hamish Morris, and Ben Searle
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