Hutt Remain Unstoppable

Round 6 Review The feature match this weekend was between Hutt Old Boys Marist and Poneke, where HOBM convincingly won 69-0. During the early stages of the first half Poneke controlled possession with some well worked forward drives with Leon Head showing his mauling capabilities. However a few unforced errors granted HOBM possession which they used wisely scoring two quick tries. For the remainder of the game Poneke were on the back foot, struggling to keep themselves in the match. By half time HOBM had already run in five tries and converted four of them making it 33-0 at the break.

Throughout the game Poneke showed they can be effective on attack coming close on many occasions, however they lacked consistency and stamina preventing them from having possession for prolonged periods of time which was ultimately their downfall. The HOBM backline again showed their ability, displaying some well executed moves and gained the side countless yards, aiding to the eleven try trouncing. It was the forwards that did a large majority of the work for HOBM especially at ruck and maul situations with the pick and go proving effective.

One player that stood out during the match on Saturday was Leo Auva?a who scored three tries during the encounter. His ability to run the ball was unmatched and unstoppable as he bulldozed his way through the Poneke defence. The entire HOBM forward pack have the unique ability to run the ball and link up with team mates which proved menacing for Poneke on Saturday.

Jonathan Bentley also played well at first five for HOBM. Bentley had the kicking duties in the first half converting four tries, including his own. Also his tactical kicking closed the door on Poneke, not allowing them to get back into the match. Mike Kingsbeer who usually controls the kicking showed he is also an excellent runner of the ball, scoring two tries and evading countless defenders. HOBM now have a handy lead over the competition out on 28 points as they prepare for the semi finals.

In other games this weekend Northern United had their second win of the cup beating Marist St Pats by one point. MSP have yet to win a game as they remain on the Bottom of the Table. Oriental-Rongotai had another huge win over Petone 81-0, which cements their spot in third place. Old Boys University took out Johnsonville on Saturday 23-13 which keeps them safely in second place on 25 points. Johnsonville still remain in fourth spot with one round to go.