Nelson College still has a mathematical chance of making the semifinals, after a big 59-5 win against Waimea College in their UC Championships secondary schools rugby game at Waimea College on Saturday.
Nelson College are presently in fifth place in the championships, and with two games remaining needed a bonus point win to stay within striking distance of fourth-placed St Bedes. And they did just that, scoring the bonus point try in the 24th minute and lead 31-0 at halftime before completing a nine-try demolition of Waimea College.
Nelson dominated all aspects of play with their big forwards, led by No8 Brad Pool and lock Trent Knapp, laying the perfect foundation for their speedy backs to attack.
Nelson prop Lachie Doyle completing the scoring with their ninth five minutes from the end.
Although Waimea was outclassed, they never stopped trying and enjoyed a good period of play leading up to their only try, to winger Mitch Amberger. Nelson College should secure another bonus point win when they play Rangiora in Nelson this Saturday but faces championship leader Christchurch Boys’ High in the final round. Nelson is five points behind fourth-placed St Bedes which plays Lincoln High and Christ’s College in their final two games.
Waimea College plays Timaru Boys High in Timaru this Saturday and Rangiora in their final game at Waimea College the following Saturday.
Nelson College 59 (Leicester Faingaanuku 2, Brad Pool, Matt Soper, Sosefo Vaka, Willy Havili, Jakob Dabinett, Jack Grooby, Lachie Doyle tries, Soper 7 conversions) Waimea College 5 (Mitch Amberger try) Half time: 31-0.
