HSOB will be up against it at Wairoa

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

WAIROA Athletic are setting the pace in the senior division one rugby competition and should make it five wins from five games when they host bottom-of-the-table High School Old Boys tomorrow.

Wairoa go into the game unbeaten after three wins, including last week’s 32-14 victory over YMP at the Oval.

Ngatapa continued their improving form with a 21-10 win against HSOB to move into joint second with Nuhaka, who lost 33-12 to OBM.

The men from Patutahi play fourth-placed Horouta, who had the bye last week, at Waikirikiri Reserve in what should be an entertaining encounter.

With Nuhaka having the bye tomorrow, Horouta, only one point behind Ngatapa and Nuhaka, have the chance to move into second.

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Ngatapa’s man of the match Craig Young used his boot to good use, keeping HSOB pinned deep inside their half.

Young also helped himself to a try, which he converted, as Ngatapa went to the break ahead 14-5.

Ben Holden Fencing HSOB manager Billy Henry said his side played well in patches.

“It’s hard to get players to training on a regular basis with some players consistently tied up with work commitments but I hope things get better as the season goes on,” Henry said.

Hooker Chris Brown and replacement first five-eighth Riki Matenga scored tries for the old students.

“Chris’s try was a good one,” Henry said.

“He ran from halfway near the sideline, beating several tacklers.

“Blindside flanker Mikaere Ngarimu was our player of the day. Mikaere is playing his first season for the club and isn’t afraid to get stuck into everything.

“He is a keen trainer and willing to learn.

Henry said halfback-cum-winger James Tuari, No.8 Daniel Taituha, replacement loose forward Sam Barbarich and replacement lock David Joll played well.

“We’re off to Wairoa Athletic tomorrow. It’s always hard to come back from Wairoa with a win.”