Nelson College’s dream run in 2019 ended in a nightmare against Kings College on Friday.
College were outclassed right from the kick-off, with the Aucklander’s size and skill too much for the South Island champions as they prevailed 49-17.
Nelson conceded four tries inside the opening twenty and never recovered as they were eliminated from the National Top Four in emphatic fashion.
Conditions in Palmerston North saw handling an issue for both sides, but it was Kings who controlled possession and territory throughout a forgettable 70 minutes for Nelson College.
Nelson were then tasked with turning up again on Sunday to take on Super 8 champions Hamilton Boys in a play-off for third/fourth.
Playing once again in torrid weather, Nelson went down to the North Island juggernaut 26-12 to finish fourth in the country.
Despite the loss, Nelson can reflect on an outstanding season in which it finishes as Quad, UC and South Island champions.
Skipper Anton Segner has been a hot topic in the national media of late, his potential catching the imagination of both public and rugby circles.
With the immense expectation placed on the young man’s shoulders, the German-born flanker put in two inspirational performances in losing efforts.
The 18-year-old is still coming to terms with his college career coming to an end.
“I think we all still need to recognise that, for most of us, it was the last game in the Nelson College jersey.”
Scorers:
Kings 49 (Grindley 3, Morris, Doyle, Otonuku, Watson tries, Morgan 4 cons, 1 pens, Grindley 1 pen)
Nelson 17 (Rogers, Malaulau 2 tries, Barton 1 cons)
