On a cold and dry Wednesday night the 1st XI team played against traditional rivals Tauranga Boys College at The Mount Maunganui in the Midlands Championship.
Tauranga Boys College started stronger and took their opportunities on attack by scoring two goals due to poor marking especially in the midfield and defensive players. St Paul’s lacked intensity in their play which created a number of problems both on attack and defense. The backs, midfield and forwards at times were working in isolation which did not help us develop any type of continuity or rhythm in our play. TBC won the half on high energy levels and good play.
St Paul’s were down 2 nil at half time.
At half time Coach Hardman and Rees – Gibbs spoke with authority and concern about the intensity and lack of urgency on defending players.
In the second half St Paul’s came back stronger with lots of well- coordinated attacks, improved communication and defensive marking of the opposition. This created lots of pressure on the opposition which showed when two penalty corners were awarded. Reuben Andrews stepped up to score to two goals from excellent drag flicks. The game remained well contested but St Paul’s had the better of the half and were unlucky not to score another goal.
