CLUB RUGBY:

Coastal has upset New Plymouth Old Boys’ centenary celebrations during the latest round of the CMK premier club rugby competition with a 29-19 win over the defending champions.

In the repeat of last year’s final, played on Saturday, Coastal scored four tries to three and now has an outright lead in the competition.

Coastal first five-eighth Brett Goodin and second five-eighth Rick McKenna were significant players for their side.

The experienced duo both scored a try in the match with McKenna adding three conversions and a penalty kick in the win.

Coastal’s defensive effort was patient and strong that took away scoring opportunities for Old Boys.

Old Boys came back in the second half by scoring two late tries but ran out of time in the match.

There were plenty of positives for Old Boys, however, with midfielder Brayton Northcott-Hill and first five-eighth Liam McBride both returning from injury.

Chiefs halfback Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi was released to play and played on the wing in the second half. The two test All Black made a significant impact with plenty of footwork and speed on display.

As a result of the loss, Old Boys remain in sixth place after losing their last three matches.

Despite winning their first four matches, Stratford/Eltham sit in second place after a 25-17 win over Southern at Victoria Park.

The home team has failed to collect bonus points in the last two wins, which leaves Coastal with a two point lead.

Stratford/Eltham’s scrum was a significant force in the game with some exciting injection of pace from their backline.

Southern is still to record a win in the competition and sit at the bottom of the table.

Wingers Moses Christie and Maika Rova both scored a brace for Spotswood United in their 49-35 win over Clifton at the Tikorangi Domain.

In a fast paced match, Spotswood United scored seven tries to five in the thriller and claimed back-to-back wins in the competition.

Meli Naholo returned for Clifton and scored a try on his wing.

Due to the win, Spotswood United move to third on the table, equal with Clifton.

In the remaining match of the weekend, Inglewood beat Tukapa 33-17 at Sanders Park.

Tukapa will be disappointed with their second half effort as they led 17-5 at the break. Inglewood then scored 28 unanswered points including four second half tries to win their second match.

Article added: Sunday 21 April 2019