Rugby: Under 18's adapt and overcome

Conditions were wet and muddy at Spriggens Park on Saturday.

Despite appalling wet and muddy conditions, plus a last-minute venue and time change, the Display Associates Wanganui Under 18's picked up their first win of the HYRC Series at Spriggens Park on Saturday.

Goalkicking proved the difference, although Wanganui's 21-17 win over Poverty Bay U18 was more comfortable than the scoreline suggested - after the visitors managed to barge over for their third try right on fulltime.

The match was moved away from being the 12.30pm curtain raiser at Cooks Gardens to a 12pm kickoff in pouring rain conditions at Spriggens.

After letting Wairarapa Bush get back into the match for a 20-20 draw last weekend in Masterton, this time Wanganui had good composure in the second half.

They led 13-12 at the break through a try by openside flanker Jason Myers, converted by first-five and vice captain Desmond Tyrell, who also added two penalties.

Another Tyrell penalty and try by Myers in the second half made Wanganui safe at 21-12 as the final quarter was a steady progression of scrums before Poverty Bay finally got some territory to cross after the 70th minute.

"They adapted well, they did bloody well," said coach Danny Tamehana.

"It was wet weather rugby - name of the game. Put the ball down there."

Tamehana said he has definitely see improvement from the side over the last two matches, although the side has not seen a firm dry track since their 26-19 win in preseason against Horowhenua Kapiti in Levin.

They will now travel back to Levin to meet the Wellington Samoan Under 18's this coming Saturday.