This annual return match between the 2 schools first 15’s was played in very wet and muddy conditions.

Although Howick, who play’s in the Auckland 1st division won 18 – 6, the score certainly didn’t reflect the closeness of the match. Hillcrest’s points were 2 penalty goals, kicked by Liam Eldridge.

The Howick scrum appeared to have the upper hand during the first half, but the efforts of the Hillcrest props, Ryan Leach and Oh peal seemed to even things up in the second half. Playing ‘up hill’ and leading 3 – 0 for most of the first half, Hillcrest succumbed to Howick’s pressure, who scored an unconverted try to trail 3 -8 at the half time whistle.

The second half saw Howick score a converted try and kick a penalty goal. Hillcrest replied with a successful penalty goal.

Players to stand out were Arno Bekker who made good tackles throughout the match and the backs Liam, Bryce & Sunny’s midfield defence was strong.

Mark Eldridge