The Press Cup Update
Christchurch Boys’ 43-13 win at Rugby Park last week saw them equal the school's record winning streak from 1966 to 1976, and keep College winless in the history of the Press Cup. College’s gritty defence kept them right in the game at halftime, down only 10-6. However, Christchurch Boys’ cut loose after the break. Former Nelson College pupil Fletcher Smith led the attack from first five-eighth with tries in each half. The first was a cheeky steal from a tap penalty, while the second was a dazzling 40-metre solo effort. Bullocking No.8 Brad Hemopo deservedly got his name on the score sheet and fullback Tom Turner grabbed two tries. Japanese winger Kazan Watanabe came off the bench and landed three sideline conversions. College captain Tim Smith had little to cheer about, other than scoring his side’s only try - his ninth in six games. With Christchurch’s most celebrated schools’ rugby clash being played, it is easy to forget crucial Press Cup points were at stake. Christchurch Boys’ grabbed the maximum to lead the southern section from Timaru Boys’, while College slumped to their second loss. In other matches, Ashburton College upset Shirley Boys’ High 31-25 to compound a tough season for the former Press Cup finalists. The school was forced to relocate after the February earthquake and have just the one win against Lincoln High. Shirley coach Phil Dixon has maintained his sense of humour despite his team’s predicament “They’re an enjoyable lot to work with, even though it seems like they don’t know how to win,” he says. The inability to win tight games comes down to inexperience, Phil believes. “We’re in a bit of a hole, but at the same time, they’re improving. “Next year, we’re looking at having most of the guys back who are in the backs, but we will lose most of our forwards.” UnbeatenNelson College accounted for St Thomas's 34-3 and St Bede's continued their winning streak with a 34-15 win against Marlborough Boys’. Timaru Boys’ won the South Canterbury battle against Roncalli College 25-11, Waimea College beat St Andrew’s 22-3, Rangiora won 39-10 against Nayland College in Nelson, and Burnside again showed that they are far more competitive this year by beating Lincoln High 20-10. Locationhttp://www.crfu.co.nz/main/index.cfm/1,607,3808,0,html Copyright © CRFU 2013 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Christ’s College must be wondering how to break the Press Cup curse hanging over their annual clash with Christchurch Boys’ High after an 11th straight loss.Site by Orbital Ltd