Cowboys retain under 16 trophy

The Arorangi Cowboys under 16 rugby team showed why they are the Powerade trophy champions after comprehensively beating the Titikaveka Bulls 37-7 on Wednesday to retain the trophy.

The Cowboys dominated all facets of the game and a try to outstanding Cowboys utility player Dennis Rangi just before the half time break seemed to knock the stuffing out of the young Bulls.

Rangi’s try took the halftime score to 15-7 in favour of the Cowboys.

In the second half the Cowboys grew in confidence as they went about their business of starving the Bulls of possession and stringing together the phases to score a further 22 un-answered points to take the final score to 37-7 to the Cowboys.

The Bulls tried hard but the Cowboys’ regimented approach especially at ruck and maul time proved too much for the Bulls.

The Cowboys hold on to the Powerade Trophy for the third straight year.

Post-match individual Powerade MVP awards went to Bulls side-stepping flanker Harmon Royal and the Cowboys ace first five-eight Leo Toa, who finished the match scoring 17 points.

Before the age grade action – a minute’s silence was observed out of respect for the Nicholas family who lost their father Albert ‘Peto’ Nicholas in a tragic accident on Wednesday.

Nicholas was a staunch rugby and Avatiu Eels man and in 1981 was one of a member of the victorious Cook Islands national rugby team that defeated Italy 15-9 lead by Tiki Matapo.

This feat remains one of best international results by any national Cook Islands rugby team.

Meanwhile the club rugby matches between the Avatiu Eels and the Takuvaine Reds may not be held this weekend as the Avatiu club will be showing support for the Nicholas family.

Games between the Ngatangiia-Matavera Dragons and Titikaveka Bulls as well as the main game of the week between the Arorangi Cowboys and Tupapa Panthers look set to continue this weekend.