Linton Army 35 v Varsity 31

In a seesaw game of attacking rugby, Linton ended up on the winning side of the ledger by 5 tries to 4.

Varsity started strongly with the opening try coming in the opening minutes from a well placed chip by Isaac Thompson into the in goal which was grounded by winger Caleb Kahapukoro.

After dominating territory for the better part of the first half Varsity then let Linton into the game with a soft try resulting from a turnover. Varsity’s second try came from a break from the lineout from flanker Dave Riley offloading to Loius Booth who dashed 20 metres to score in the corner. Linton then responded quickly with a try to Manawatu Turbo Aaron James who went under the posts untouched. Hamish Clare scored Varsity’s final try of the half, from a scrum set piece.

Varsity lead at the break, and extended the lead just after halftime with a drop goal from 1st five Isaac Thompson. Soft defence, and a lack of possesion was the story of the second half for the Varsity boys which saw Linton score three un answered tries to be leading 35 -24 with 20 minutes to play. A second try to Varsity flanker Louis Booth gave the students a glimmer of home with 10 minutes to play, but were unable to crack the line again.

Strong performers for the forwards were Daniel Webby, Ben Koche, Cameron Crane, and the loose forward trio of James Oakes, Dave Riley, and Louis Booth.

For the backs Isaac Thompson had a good day at the office not missing one kick at goal. Loius Maxwell & Hamish Clare were strong in the midfield, and right winger Caleb Kahapukoro made a solid senior club rugby debut.

Linton:
Tries: A James, J Adams, N Wickham, P Davis, M Oldridge
Cons: P Davis x5

Varsity:
Tries: L Booth x2, H Clare, C Kahapukoro
Cons: I Thompson x4
DGs: I Thompson

Half-time: 21-14