RUGBY VISITORS FROM ONEHUNGA

Taupo Times, Volume IV, Issue 190, 16 September 1955, Page 5

RUGBY VISITORS FROM ONEHUNGA

Nukuhau's Generous Welcome The big match on Saturday last was between the Waikaraka Club, of Onehunga, and a team representing the Taupo and United Clubs. The local team emerged the winners by short, their ranks being made up by 24 to 16. The visitors were three men three College Old Boys men. A good friendly game resulted, with the crowd giving the visitors plenty of encouragement. For the Taupo team tries were scored by Orr (2), J. Rakau, D. Rameka, B. Garlick, and Erickson, while three tries were converted by Danny Panapa. Three tries were scored for Waikaraka, by J. Biddle (C.O.B.), Phillips and Kirkwood, while Harris converted two tries and kicked a penalty goal. The outstanding player on the field was Harris, of Waikaraka, a versatile back, who played fullback in the first spell and halfback in the second spell. The best Taupo players were Barry Thomas in the forwards and Panapa in the backs. The visitors were guests at Nukuhau Pa during their vi.sit, where they were treated right royally. Leaving Auckland on Friday night they did not arrive at Nukuhau until 3 a.m. but despite the hour the people of Nukuhau were ready for them with a hot meal. Following the match a sumptuous - dinner awaited the visitors on their return to Nukuhau, and in the evening a dance was held in their honour at Rickit's Hall.