League impression

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 285, 2 May 1989, Page 5

League impression

BY

Chris

W aterhouse

Saturday last week the Waiouru Bobcats Premier League team played Dannevirke Tigers here in Waiouru.

This being the first competition game of the season Waiouru were out to make a good impression. In the pre-season competition the result was a 30 all draw so the scene was set for a close encounter.

Waiouru started strongly and held out Dannevirke's elusive attacks. However, a series of penalties that baffled the crowd including this writer put Dannevirke hot on attack. Some weak defence out wide saw them

score a try in the 13 th minute. Seven minutes later they scored another which was converted and a shellshocked Waiouru team were 10-nil down. This spurred the Waiouru team on and strong running close to the line saw Max Tekakau force himself over close to the posts which was converted by Turnpage 6

League impression

Frompage5 Sonny Tawake. Dannevirke were quick to reply with a try which put them ahead 14-6 in the 29th minute. A strong run down the wing by Dave King saw him pulled down just short of the line and a quick play gave Max Tekakau his second try in the comer, Dannevirke could only reply with a penalty and right on half time Sonny Tawake scored a good try which he converted to make the score 16 all. At the break coach Eddie Johnson replaced hit man Kendall Gupwell with Shag Brennan. The start of the second half saw Waiouru start strongly and fullback Jock MacCauley found that extra yard of pace to outstrip the defence and score a 50 metre try which was converted. Dannevirke could only score once in the second half whereas Waiouru scored tries through rugged lose forward Shag Brennan, burly prop Mark Heemi and Mr Reliable, Sonny Tawake.

Others to shine in the game were backs, Frank Smith, Turei White and Dave King and forwards Terence Hiko and Mark Heemi. The 34-20 final score was a good result, but the team would. need to work harder on defence to knock over last year's champions Foxton,, the game that was scheduled for last Saturday.

Player of the day was Sonny Tawake, top tackle count went to Simon Rivers and Terence Hiko (14). Thanks to Phil Hardwick (Harding) and AGI for prizes. Draw: Saturday May 6 vs Fielding at Fielding Reserves 1.00pm and Premiers 2.45pm. Supporters are welcome to travel on the team bus.