Report: annual Grammar vs King’s College 1st XV Rugby fixture

The annual 1st XV Rugby fixture between Auckland Grammar School and King’s College on Saturday 10 June lived up to its reputation with the intense rivalry often characterised in these matches on display.

From the start of the match, both teams fought to gain an early advantage. As the game progressed and settled into a rhythm, the 1st XV found their stride, and put together a number of phases of play. Form 7 student K. A. S. Ahokovi made a break on the edge opening the scoring with a try in the corner. The forwards were intent on dominating the collision and looked for options with the ball in hand, scoring a further two tries to go into halftime with a 21-13 lead.

In the second half, King’s College kicked a penalty to close the gap. However, the 1st XV through Form 6 student P. A. Tousoon extended their lead. King’s responded with a try midway through the second half, and the 1st XV closed the game out with two tries of their own, to win 40-23 and win the coveted Cooper-Greenbank Cup.

Tries were awarded to K. A. S. Ahokovi, P. H. J. Morunga, I. V. S. Ratadai, P. A. Tousoon, C. J. D. Wallis and captain L. J. D. Lepionka, with M. E. Parkinson kicking five conversions.

Captain L. J. D. Lepionka crossed stage on Monday 12 June to receive the Cooper-Greenbank Cup on behalf of the team, and the 1st XV team would like to thank students and staff who attended the match to support them.