WBHS 1st XV vs Massey High School
This match was a must win situation for Westlake to maintain the top position going into the playoff rounds. Having already secured a home semi-final it was important to finish first for a number of reasons. Massey were markedly under strength on the day with a number of their key players on the injured list. However it would still require structure and discipline from us to win.
The first half we were dominant and Jack Heighton in particular controlled the game. Jack was involved in setting up 3 tries in that half. First Fine Inisi, and later Jack Fuller scored following work done by Jack. Tupou Afungia scored the second try and only Jack Fullers try was converted. Westlake dominated at scrum winning tight-heads and also at lineout winning opposition ball. Resolute Massey defence and their pride in the jersey kept the score down.
The second half was pretty much a repeat of the first. Fine Inisi ran half the field to score his second and Jack Fuller was on the end of a cross kick to dot down for his second try of the game. A brief 5 minute period saw Massey use their pick and go effectively before spreading the ball wide and their winger scoring in the corner.
Scoreboard: Westlake 27 Massey 5 (Half time 17 – 0)
4th XV vs Orewa College 2nd XV
Playing against Orewa College second XV, Westlake fourths had one of their most disappointing performances this season. They lost to a better team by their biggest margin and failed to score for the first time this season. The team conceded 12 points in the last two minutes of the first half and the normally very strong goal line defence, allowed a number of soft tries.
The second half performance was much better and despite dominating territory and playing some exciting rugby, the team conceded another try. This was extra disappointing as a number of players had charged down an Orewa break-away to prevent a certain try and the final score of 0 to 29 was a true reflection of the match.
Next week’s game becomes more important against Rosmini College as our team does not want to lose another match. It’s time for the dirt trackers to lift their game and we’ll need a full turn out at training next week.