ROSMINI YR 7&8 BLUES CHAMPS

On Saturday, 23^rd May Rosmini College’s Intermediate Sevens team represented North Harbour in Aa Blues 7s finals tournament which was held at Mt Roskill’s Fearon Park. The Rosmini team consisted of Allen Dela Cruz, Cameron Howell, Taine Murray, Keano Kini, Ethan Hardy, Levi Wilson, Rory Taylor, Ned Barry, Duke Larsen and Cameron Holloway. The tournament was made up of the winners from greater Auckland area – Kamo, Henderson, Papatoetoe and Rosmini. The format for the competition was a Round Robin in which everyone played each other, and the top two teams advanced to the final which was held at Eden Park. The final was also to be the curtain raiser for the Blues vs Hurricanes game. Rosmini’s Junior Sports Coordinator, Mr Darren Sexton says, “The weather conditions made it very difficult for all the teams involved.  Rosmini decided it was too late to change their game plan of a wide expansive pattern. They did well to keep away from contact as much as they could. If things got tight, they kicked and chased to try to gain field position and pressure the opposition’s attempt to attack.” Rosmini’s game plan was executed well and they beat Kamo 30 – 5, Henderson 15 – 5 and Papatoetoe 20 – 5. Darren adds, “Another key to Rosmini’s success was their structured, pressured blitz defence.  The opposition had little time and space, minimising their options and forcing mistakes. Rosmini also did well by capitalising on these mistakes and turning them into points.” The final between Henderson and Rosmini was held at Eden Park at 6:30pm. Rosmini got off to a great start and scored two quick tries. Keano Kini showed real talent by beating many players to run half the field and score in the corner. Henderson was very well organised and disciplined in their approach and they managed to level the score 15 – 15 with seconds remaining in the game. However, Rosmini took the title, having beaten Henderson in the Round Robin and scoring the first try in the final. Darren concludes, “It was an amazing occasion for both teams and all the people involved.” As a fitting finale to the day all the boys who played in the tournament got to watch the Blues vs Hurricanes game.