The battle for schools rugby supremacy
With the annual New Zealand Barbarians National 1st XV Championships set to hit Palmerston North this week, rugby writer Shaun Eade takes a look at the teams competing for the boys, girls and co-ed titles.
in the North Harbour 1st XV competition, have proven to be able to grind out tight wins.
They reached the Top Four with a win over last year’s co-ed finalists Aorere College.
- Josh Tanner Rangitoto will turn to captain and No 8 Tanner to set the tone on defence and for work ethic at the breakdown.
Prediction: Fourth
Key player Hine Pounamu Trophy - Girls
ST MARY’S COLLEGE
Last year’s beaten finalists will be hard to beat this year with an athletic team across the park.
- Dhys Faleafaga The captain and No 8 is no stranger to the tryline and can be expected to feature plenty of times with ball in hand.
Prediction: Champions
Key player SOUTHLAND GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL
The defending champions have been in good form again this season and have a host of returning players on deck.
- Emma Dermody The No 8 was one of the top performers in last year’s final and has continued to improve.
Prediction: Runners-up
Key player HAMILTON GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL
A regular powerhouse of girls’ 1st XV rugby, they will be keen to prove they have the firepower out wide to challenge for the title.
- Jazmin Hotham A dangerous runner with ball in hand who was named the MVP of Condor Sevens last year.
Prediction: Third
Key player SOUTHERN CROSS CAMPUS
Four consecutive Auckland titles highlight their depth.
- Luti Sikolau The Black Ferns highlighted the value on having strong ball carriers at prop. Sikolau is a prop in that mould.
Prediction: Fourth
Key player