Boxon near Premier grade by default

Wanganui's sole senior league team is thrilled they have made history by confirming their spot in Manawatu's top grade, although it has come in the most deflating way.

Whanganui Boxon were to have their first home game this afternoon against Otaki's Whiti Te Ra Brothers 2, but the Manawatu team have defaulted.

Given the maximum competition points, Boxon have five wins and are now all but confirmed to be in the top four when the Manawatu's nine-team league splits into the Premier and Senior grades in two weeks.

Coach Stewart Reweti said the closest team which could push them out is sixth with one round to play after this weekend.

He agreed it was a shame that his players didn't have it all to play for this weekend to earn the spot, which was the team's 2013 goal for their second year of existence.

"We're pretty disappointed too."

Boxon tried to get another game against Kia Ora 2, but that potential match was also canned yesterday afternoon. Reweti said it would have been good to have at least some hit out before they take on Whiti Te Ra Brothers 1 next week to complete round 1.

That Whiti Te Ra team is top of the competition and long-since confirmed for Premier.

Reweti said it will be a tough experience from here on out for his developing team. While they have won four games on the field, they were heavily beaten 62-4 by the Linton Cobras on April 13, and lost to the Dannevirke Tigers 50-16 last weekend - both sides that will feature in Premier.

Reweti said his players looked good at their early training session and being a home game next Saturday he can choose the best 17 players from the wider squad of 26 for the match at Te Kura O Kokohuia.