Future stars in under 19 finals

This weekend’s Ocean Fresh under 19 rugby grand finals will feature the rising stars of local rugby with a stellar line up from the Avatiu Eels and Arorangi Cowboys clubs.

These two teams have met three times this season with the Cowboys winning all three closely fought matches.

When they met in the semis two weeks ago and with the score at 10-all late in the second half, the Cowboys were able to score a last minute try through their inspirational captain John Vano for the Cowboys to win this match 15-10.

Players from both under 19 teams are either regular senior A grade players or players that have experienced game time in the senior grade and are stacked with potential match winners right across field.

In the Cowboys camp – they will look to key players and regular A graders including feisty first 5/8 Basil Matapo, strong-running number 8 John Vano, lock Andre Iro and winger Aki Tairi.

The Eels will also be strengthened by the return of regular A graders in props Zeru Pera and Toru Katuke, number 8 and captain Stan Tobia and midfielder Raina Wichman.

Under 19 Eels – Arama Henry, Roi Ioana, Toru Katuke,Moeroa George, Michael Tutaka, Strickland Ua, Tamanui Nicholas, Stanley Tobia(captain), Marcelo Rairoa, Puna Hiro, Devron Aererua, Nigel Hoeflich, Christian Toa, Petero ‘Mr LavaLava’ Teio, Repaio Jones, Richy Ponini, Rau Toru, Arama Bishop.

Under 19 Cowboys – Nuka Mokoroa, Robert Heather Jnr, John Vano, Andre Iro, Tokoa Teao, Thomas Harrison, William Boller, Levi McKinley(Captain), Tunui Torope, Mata Ioane, John Gosselin, Tokoiva George, Akiona Tairi, Thomas Aumata, Tuaine Mamanu, Jordan Tatum, Teariki Smith, Paoro Arokapiti, Jag Love, George Isamaela, Daniel Tonorio.

This under 19 finals match will be played at the BCI Stadium this Saturday kicking-off at 2.15pm.