After winning all their games in the local U18 Tasman competition, Nayland Girls challenged Motueka in the finals at 5pm under lights at Jubilee Park Richmond on Wednesday 24 August.
Nayland started slow, not firing like they usually do, and it didn’t take long for the underdogs of the season to start to dominate Nayland with their first two tries within 16 minutes of the game after a high percentage of penalties to Motueka and most of the possession.
Nayland replied quickly with some strong running after the kick off from Sarah Jones, Lucy Mahuika and strong forward driving with Paige Andrews finally finishing it off under the posts. One minute later, after the kickoff, Nayland had scored again with some strong forward phases and Ruby Thomas having a quick break and fast run, bringing the score to 14-10 with Nayland leading for the first time in the game.
Nayland were not prepared to go easy on Motueka with hands through the backs giving Sasha Bang a 30 metre open run to the try line for Nayland’s third converted try in 10 minutes. Before half time Sarah Jones scored again giving Nayland a good half time lead of 16 points.
Half time score Nayland 26 – Motueka 10.
The second half started with strong phases from both sides with equal possession but the first set of points were awarded to Motueka after persistent forward momentum and strong passing dotting down after 14 minutes and securing the first try for the second half.
Motueka went on to score again closing the gap to 26-20. Although possession was pretty 50/50 in the second half, Nayland kept fighting and then finally dotted down after strong forward pick and goes with Lucy sneaking through within the last two minutes and not only scoring a try but securing the win and the championship trophy for Nayland College.
This was an exciting win for the girls, not only to take the championship, but is also the first time that Nayland has featured on the trophy with Motueka tending to dominate prior championships.
Final score – 33 Nayland – 20 Motueka.
Well done girls an impressive season and well deserved by all.
We look forward to watching some of the Nayland College players as they go on to represent Tasman in the U18 Makos side.
Nayland would like to thank all those involved with supporting the girls side.
Special thanks to the coaching and management team for devoting there time to the side:
- Stephani Mitchell, Graham Mahuika, Kelly Miller-Mahuika, Karen Jones.
- Players including those from Reefton, Westport, Tapawera and Nelson Girls (joined when their team got abandoned)
- All the parents and supporters for bringing the girls and turning up to the games.
- All the sponsors Intesafety, Rosco’s Contracting, Salvito Pizza.
By Jolene Cotton
