League: Tokoroa show tough Anzac spirit despite loss

Sometimes you can lose but still win. I found that to be the case on Saturday when I watched Forestland Falcons take on the Pikiao Warriors.

Despite the Tokoroa side getting a fair old hiding by the Rotorua side 74-4, the boys from the small timber mill town can hold their heads up high.

Coached by Riki Nicholls, the side went into the game at Puketawhero Park with only 12 players - decimated by injuries to senior players and other team mates unavailable due to work commitments, they were always going to be on a hiding to nothing.

However, not once did the side drop their heads. Like Anzac soldiers, they were a brotherhood and they stayed by each other right to the end - calling each other brother and staying strong.

This sort of "never say die" attitude is what makes this country great and why our forebears went to war to protect our way of life.

Anzac Day commemorates those killed in war as well as honouring returned servicemen and women. On Thursday we will remember those who sacrificed their lives so we can have what we have today.

These boys from Tokoroa showed a little of that Anzac spirit and I commend them - from Axle Kingi who tried everything in his talented arsenal to Aaron Bell who, despite being injured, stayed on the field to be with his brothers-in-arms.

Boys, you may have lost that battle but you won the hearts and minds of those on the sideline.

I'd like to end this column with this chorus sung by some great men as they went off to war and I dedicate to a team who epitomise the Kiwi spirit.

Maori Battalion march to victory,

Maori Battalion staunch and true,

Maori Battalion march to glory.

Take the honour of the people with you.

We will march, march, march to the enemy,

And we'll fight right to the end.

For God, for King and for Country

Aue! Ake ake kia kaha e.