Grammar Carlton – dissappointing finish

Filed under 4 Nations Invitational 7s, New Zealand 7s Events by on February 1, 2010 at 1:16 pm {no comments}

Grammar-CarltonGrammar started strongly with a resounding victory over Niue Wanderers (28-12) in pool play – see video below.

But they came undone from there losing to both Ponsonby (12-26) and Nadi (12-19) to leave them contesting the Plate.

The were a capable side with pace out wide to match the play making ability of Soape Kavaliku around the ruck but the loss to Auckland Marist in the Plate Semi-finals ended their tournament with just one win.

Grammar were without their Auckland Sevens players for this tournament and they clearly missed them.

Among the ‘not playing’ were: Iopu Iopu, Urwin Finau, Tutu Tairea, Rocky Khan and George Moala.

Auckland NPC halfback, Grayson Hart was one of the few recognisable names in the Grammar line-up.

Grammar will be keen to get back to winning ways to defend their title at the Mount Maunganui Club 7s in late January.

Eden way too strong for Rifles in the final

Filed under 4 Nations Invitational 7s by on January 17, 2010 at 10:31 pm {no comments}

The final of the College Rifles 4 Nations Invitational 7s tournament was a one-sided affair with Eden winning at a canter.

Eden had beaten hosts College Rifles in their first match of the day 12 – 5 and there would be no turnaround in the final.

The result was effectively settled in the first half when Eden ran in 4 ties to 1. The second half was a similar story – College Rifles didn’t seem to have any answers to the pace, fitness and organisation of this Eden outfit.

Eden Rugby Sevens Team

The Eden Rugby 7s team - deserving winners at the 4 Nations Invitational 7s tournament at College Rifles Rugby Club, 16 Jan, 2010

Eden were unbeaten throughout the tournament. They had a well balanced team with plenty of pace, strength and skill.

Eden also showed good discipline and temperament. Their win over Teachers Eastern threatened to turn ugly when Teachers let their frustration get the better of them – following through with cheap shots after the try had been scored on several occasions.

Results

Results from Pool Play at the 4 Nations Invitational 7s Tournament

4 Nations Invitational – The Teams

Filed under 4 Nations Invitational 7s, New Zealand 7s Events by on January 17, 2010 at 9:49 am {no comments}

Organisers were expecting 12 teams but unfortunately only 8 fronted on the day. That said, the general quality of those teams was excellent.

All had pace and fitness and handled the heat of the Auckland sun very well.

Support teams are well catered for at College Rifles with a tent are that includes leaner tables and umbrellas for shade.

College Rifles Rugby Club

Shaded area for players at College Rifles Rugby Club, Auckland

The results of the Auckland provincial team at the recent tournaments are surprising given the level of depth in the region that was on display here.

Pool A

Auckland Marist

Teachers Eastern

College Rifles

Eden

Pool B

Grammar Carlton

Ponsonby

Nuie Wanderers

Nadi Blues

College Rifles – ideal 7s venue

Filed under 4 Nations Invitational 7s, New Zealand 7s Events by on January 16, 2010 at 1:18 pm {no comments}

The attributes stack up for the College Rifles Rugby and Sports Club as a sevens venue.

Venue: The College Rifles Rugby Club

  • Artificial turf with a second field for warm-up and down.
  • Separate players’ area with shaded tables
  • Sectioned off area for referees
  • Fence around the field with close access to playing surface for supporters
  • Elevated grass verges for better views
  • Large car park
  • Cafe with balcony
  • Kids play area in the garden bar out the back

Well-shaded players area

College Rifles main ground

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