On the 15th of August a willing Hillcrest team took on 3rd place St. John’s in a good (though muddy) rugby match. It was close in ability but not in the score line - 34-0 to St. John.
St. Johns kicking was not up to scratch as they missed nearly all of their kicks. Despite stalwart defence from the forwards and some great work in the scrums Hillcrest could not hold out from St. John’s fast number 14 winger who scored four of their six tries. The lads showed a determination and commitment which was commendable – 110% effort but with only one sub and a couple of injured players on the field we were on the back foot before we began.  Rikki tackled well as usual and Kendra had a great game at Half Back.  Good games too from Jonno, who threw himself at everything and Romain who put his all into his last game in NZ.
It proved to be our last game of the season and despite the score was a good one to finish on.  We finished bottom of the table but the lads have had a great experience.  We could have opted to stay in the B grade competition but the team decided after the grading games that we would take up the challenge of the A Grade and they have done themselves proud.  They certainly don’t lack talent or ability and the games have been hard fought.  We need to learn the lessons from this year and go into next year with more commitment to training so that we can perform to our potential. 
Well done and see you all at Prizegiving!