Damarus Hokianga (with ball) scored one of Hastings tries today. Photo/File
Could the the fact it was a televised fixture been the reason for Hastings Boys High School's 1st XV rugby side producing their best Super 8 display of the season today?
"You could be right," manager Jason Bird replied when this question was put to him after his troops 25-15
win against Rotorua Boys' High School in Rotorua. This victory leaves the joint defending champions with the same record as their Napier counterparts - three wins and one loss.
"After a shaky start we played to our structures and produced our best defensive game. It was definitely a step in the right direction," Bird said.
HBHS trailed 12-5 at halftime. The visitors scored a spectacular 70 metre team try finished by blindside flanker Donovan Mataira which was started by inspirational captain and No 8 Liam Udy-Johns.
Hooker Damarus Hokianga scored a try and HBHS were also awarded a penalty try. First five-eighth Shamara Brooks kicked two penalties and a conversion.
