Source: MIL-OSI Submissions
Match reports from Round 11 of the first division SAS Fox Memorial Premiership Qualifiers played on June 26.
Howick 26 Pt Chevalier 29
Veteran centre Malo Solomona scored on the full-time siren to ensure Pt Chevalier remain unbeaten through the 11-round Qualifiers, lifting them to victory in a game where they trailed for most of the second half. The Pirates had led at the break before Howick hit the front, helped along by a strong performance from prop Clayton Williams. But on the very last play of the game Pt Chevalier struck to secure the win at Paparoa Park.
Northcote 18 Mt Albert 26
Mt Albert overcame a 14-6 half-time deficit to defeat Northcote and win the Zae Wallace Memorial Trophy in the process. The Tigers – who were already confirmed to be relegated from the first division – started with a hiss and a roar, before the Lions fought back. Mt Albert fullback Tika Lelenga scored twice in the win.
Glenora 42 Papakura 10
Glenora retained the Roope Rooster with a big win over Papakura, helped along by doubles to Chaz Brown and Simon Luafalealo. After suffering their first loss of the year last week to Pt Chevalier, the Bears bounced back in style and ensured they remain safely in second position heading into the competition proper.
Otahuhu 30 Bay Roskill 28
Prop Connor Taurua-Purcell put his membership to the front-rower’s club in jeopardy by scoring three tries for Otahuhu as they survived a late comeback to beat Bay Roskill. The Leopards led 14-4 at the break before Bay came back to lead. Otahuhu then appeared safe after scoring three-consecutive tries late in the match, and while the Vikings finished strong with a pair of four-pointers, they ultimately fell just short.
Marist 26 Mangere East 24
Marist held on to secure victory over Mangere East and with it book their spot in the first division competition proper. Down 14-10 at the break, Marist did well to establish a comfortable lead before the Hawks powered back late on. Back-rowers Sam Suamili and Elam Payne were among the Saints’ best.
Te Atatu 20 Richmond 22
Sione Ngahe scored three minutes from time – his third try of the match – to hand Richmond victory over Te Atatu. The win however wasn’t enough to secure first division safety for the Bulldogs, who will drop down to the Crown Lift Trucks Fox Championship. Standoff Paul Roache was outstanding for Richmond in the win.
SAS Sport is the official sponsor of the SAS Fox Memorial Premiership Qualifiers. Visit sas.co.nz for more information on their products.
