Young Lions bow to Tupapa-Avatiu

The combined Tupapa-Avatiu under 16 rugby union team proved too strong for the visiting Canadian team the Foothill Lions team who went down 53-0 to the local side.

But it was the Lions club that stole the crowd’s attention at the start of the game with an almighty Canadian style haka.

On the playing field, a regimented and technically superior Tupapa-Avatiu side had a try scoring bonanza against the Foothill Lions scoring 36 points in the first half.

The local boys were certainly impressive showcasing a wide range set play pieces which were just as good if not better than some of the moves seen in A-grade rugby.

To be fair to the visitors, the majority of their players are between 11 and 14 years old.

An improved second-half effort by the Lions saw them restrict the local team to scoring only 17 points.

Try scorers for the local side were Stanley Tobia (2), Nigel Hoeflich (2), Eric Newbigging, John Vano, Jamien Iroa, Richard Vainerere and Arama Bishop.

Iroa kicked three successful conversions with Hoeflich slotting one.

Outstanding players for Tupapa-Avatiu were strong running loose-forwards Eric Newbigging and John Vano, while the in the backs first five eighth Jamien Iroa and midfielder Stanley Tobia showed nice touches throughout the match.

Best for the Foothills Lions were speedy winger Levi Laney and workaholic flanker Peter Hillman.

Post match individual awards were presented to players from both teams with Levi Laney taking the most valuable player award for the visiting team while Jamien Iroa received the award for the local side.

The ‘best hit’ awards went to the Lions Peter Hillman with Eric Newbigging picking up the award for the Tupapa-Avatiu team.

The Foothills Lions will play their second tour match today, Thursday, against the combined Arorangi-Takuvaine under 16 team.

This match will be played at Raemaru Park starting at 4.30pm.