Westlake Boys High School 18 vs Otahuhu College 12
Westlake Boys Premier Rugby League made a huge statement in this year’s CRL tournament defeating defending New Zealand Secondary Schools champions Otahuhu College 18-12. Westlake Boys scored four tries to Otahuhu’ s two in a bruising and enthralling contest.
Westlake started the match strongly getting out to a four nil lead courtesy of a try to the hard working Anthony Po-Ching. Otahuhu replied soon after and went in front 6-4, but Westlake responded with a fine individual try to Fine Inisi. Otahuhu hit back right before halftime to lead 12-10 at the break.
The second half saw Westlake come out with a committed defence to keep Otahuhu at bay. Hemi McCarthy then proved to be the man of the hour crossing for two crucial tries, the result of some brilliant Zae Wallace grubber kicks. Westlake held on stoically to the end and recorded a famous victory for the school. Even the bus breaking down on the Southern Motorway and having to wait 45 minutes for a replacement bus didn’t dampen the boys spirits. Next week sees the boys at home to Papakura in a game in which a win will all but guarantee the team a spot in CRL’s top six competition.
Tries: Hemi McCarthy (2), Anthony Poching, Fine Inisi (1)
Goals: Zae Wallace 1 from 4