Rugby Talk with John McKittrick
16 April 2009
The Super 14 has finally come alive with the five NZ-based franchises all with a chance of making the semi-finals. Eden Park on Friday night will be the place to be when the Blues host the Highlanders in what is a must win game for both sides as the competition enters the last five rounds of pool play. The depth of the Blues will certainly be tested after another run of frustrating injuries. It was great to see Harbour's Rudi Wulf not only return to the playing field but nail two tries as well.
Another round of the North Harbour Premier Club Rugby competition saw the continued resurgence of East Coast Bays who got up 16-15 against Northcote. Northcote didn't help themselves turning down shots at goal only to watch Andrew Congalton kick Bays to victory. As NZRU Councillor Gerard Van Tilborg once said “it is never dull being a Northcote supporter”. Massey continues to rack up big score this time in their local derby against Helensville running away by 61-10. Tom Chamberlain had a fine game in the No.7 jersey for Marist scoring two tries in a come from behind win against Silverdale. Although Dale led 16-3 at the break the Marist pack got into their work in the second half and finished on top 33-23. Glenfield registered their first win with a 72-0 rout over Mahurangi. Whilst Mahurangi may currently be struggling on the playing field the club is not idle with an Academy Programme already up and running - the benefits of which should be seen in the upcoming years.
This weekend promises some great club rugby with the clash of competition frontrunners Marist and North Shore at Marist, whilst out west Massey host also undefeated Takapuna. Marist will need a full 80 minute performance to subdue Shore with the ability to win the breakdown crucial in this clash. For spectators wanting to see open running rugby it doesn't get much better than watching the Massey backs in full flight. Bays should have too much firepower for Kumeu out at Riverhead and both Northcote and Helensville will be desperate to keep their season alive in a vital clash at Harvey Wright. Mahurangi hold their Old Boys Luncheon at Warkworth and host Silverdale on the day. Watch for an improved performance from Mahu.
When you get time to talk to some of the great identities in Harbour Rugby you uncover some amazing facts. Can you name the former Harbour player currently assisting in coaching one of the Premier clubs with this impressive playing CV: North Harbour; NZ 7's; NZ Maoris; All Blacks; L'Aquila; Wigan; Kiwis; Warriors; Castleford; Llanelli; Chiefs; North Harbour (again); Castres; Biarritz and Croatia. Yes you guessed it’s none other than North Shore's Frano Botica.