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Papanui Prevails in Japanese Exchange

26 Mar 2009

Hosting Sapporo Yamonote High School from Japan for the second year in succession, the Papanui 1st XV overcame atrocious weather to beat the visitors by 12-10 (having lead 7-5 at the interval) and level the series at one win apiece. Given the conditions, Papanui coaches Mike Hart and Jimmy Finlayson were pleased with their side's first run out of the year and feel that they have a solid platform to build on for the coming season. "Japanese sides are always disciplined and determined and we were pleased that were able to keep our shape and composure and edge Yamonote out in the end," said Hart. CRFU Support Manager Mark Ealey, who arranged the exchange, believes that playing international sides is an important part of teenage players' development. "The boys get a huge amount from these matches in rugby terms and they also gain an insight into a different culture which is extremely valuable in itself," said Ealey.