Raetihi down to Waiouru Sunday

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 12, Issue 587, 23 May 1995, Page 14

Raetihi down to Waiouru Sunday

Raetihi played a back-to-back game on Sunday against Waiouru, having played a tough game against Utiku the day before. Waiouru came out fresh and fired up on their home ground. An early penalty to Waiouru by their full back gave them a 3-0 lead. Following this Raetihi went into good kicking mode with Kahl Eaton, full back, proving his worth not only with the boot but also tackling well. Ngopena Pine and Rau Rangiahua both worked well to open the game up. Moko Wihare was also in support with good side stepping skills. The strong defence of Wilson Waaka, Waiouru' s centre, saw him drive hard for their first try, which was unconverted. The score then 8-0. Lineout problems for Waiouru gave Raetihi their chance their chance and away went no 7 Moko Wihare for a tremendous try, Ngopera Pine converting, the score then 8-7. Raetihi tackled well kept Waiouru on its toes. Although a penalty kick to Waiouru failed the pressure went on and Rick Waitana went over for their next try. Not converted, the score then 13-7. With Waiouru on a roll the tries came fast and furious, Rick Waitana another score, 18-7. Then no 13 for Waiouru, too strong for Raetihi, took the score to 23/7. Kahl Eaton, full back, for Raetihi kept up the pace and forced Waiouru to a penalty, Raetihi capitalised and the kick by Ngopera Pine was successful taking the score to 23-10 at the break. Waiouru came back hard with another try early in the first half which was converted (score 30- 1 0). Raetihi never gave up, and with good skills and good planned moves from penalties saw Buck Heron over for a try, which Ngopera was unable to convert, (30-15). Ten minutes before full time, Thomas Waara put more points on the board taking the score to 30-20. Raetihi 's effort came too late and at full time the score remained 30-20 in Waiouru' s favour. This game sees Raetihi remaining in second division into the second round.