Coast coach Morgan Wirepa junior said the turnaround from the Wellington Catholic Colleges game was short but the pace of the game was still “very fast”.
“Our boys are learning a huge amount about the game,” he said.
“Their scrum and lineout are improving. They’re developing in all areas.”
Horowhenua-Kapiti halfback Paora Connor-Phillips scored two tries, while captain and hooker Liam Tooman, lock Jack Sturmey and centre Rikeli Grey scored a try each.
Fullback Arana Murphy kicked four conversions.
First five-eighth Sean Pape turned in a sensational performance as MVP for the home team, who led 21-0 at halftime.
“They’re bigger than we are but our set-piece play won it for us,” Horowhenua-Kapiti coach Mark Tooman said.
“We started hard and fast with pick-and-go plays around the ruck to ensure good quick ball for our backs.
“Our No.8, Angus Baker, jumping at No.2 in the lineout, won a lot of ball.
“It was a tough battle. Their 6 (Manahi Brooking) and 7 (Sheridan) tackled really well and their 15 (Tipene Meihana) was sensational on counter-attack.”
Horowhenua-Kapiti captain Liam Tooman, Year 13, will spend the next three months in England playing rugby at Plymouth College.
“It was brutal,” he said.
“Both teams really wanted it.
“What we did well was get into our structure early and carry the ball at holes. The Coast forwards brought a lot of muscle but we executed well under pressure and kept a clear head. That’s what we had to do.”
The game was controlled by Wellington referee Colin Te Pohe.
