The First National Northland U16's struck the Auckland Crowns on a very good day at Cornwall Park this afternoon. Under cloudy skies, in near perfect playing conditions, the Auckland Crowns Foundation Cup team set about taking their Northland visitors apart. In a much improved performance over last Saturday, they were almost ruthless in their very structured game. Half-Back, Sioeli Makaui, showing maturity way beyond his years, lead them around the park like a seasoned veteran, on the way to their 46/6 victory. Makaui was ably assisted in the halves by five eight, and captain, Jody Henry. Henry finished the day scoring 22 points for his side. Northland started well with a great opening set, featuring their two big props, only to be brought undone by a spilled ball. The Crowns took their opportunity, scoring two quick tries and taking control of the game. With about 15 to go, in the first half, the intensity of the game began to take it's toll and mistakes from both sides began to creep in.

Northland took advantage of one Crowns error and sent Second Rower, Daley Johnson over for a try and Stand-Off, Shane Pumipi, grabbed the extra two. This was to be their only points in the game. Half time saw it at 16/6 and the chat at the break by Crowns Coach, Frank Harold, would prove to be very effective. The Crowns came out for the second dig, fired and believing in themselves. Stand-Off, Jody Henry, scored off the first set and it just went on from there. It was pretty much one way traffic as the Auckland side piled on another four converted tries. Crowns Loosie, Peter Lavea, exploded into the game, scoring one and playing and a major part in the others. Thirty unanswered points in the second half saw the home team run out winners 46/6. The intensity in these games has to be seen to be believed. Considering these guys are of very tender years, their performance on the field belies their age. Huge credit to NZRL (and you won't hear that from this writer often ! ) and the District Leagues in providing the elite coaching and training required to get all the players to this level. LION FOUNDATION NJC - ROUND 2 RESULTS

Saturday 12 March 2005

Foundation Cup 16's

Auckland Crowns vs First National Northland Cornwall Park, Auckland Auckland Crowns 46 Tries: Shane Henry, Robert McCarthy, Leeson Ah Mau, Peter Lavea, George Smith, James Joblin, Jody Henry (2) Goals: Jody Henry (7)

First National Northland 6 Tries: Shane Pumipi Goals: Daley Johnson

Halftime Score: 16 - 6 to Auckland Crowns

Wellington vs Auckland Sea Lions Wise Park, Wellington Auckland Sea Lions 22 Tries: Tom Pelo, Harmony Hunt, Palaamo Kalata (2) Goals: Maroanui Nosa (1), Jerome Leolahi (2)

Wellington 20 Tries: Bronson Marino, Peleni Panapa, Arana Taumata (2) Goals: Frae Wilson (2)

Halftime Score: 12 - 10 To Auckland Sea Lions

Canterbury vs Waicoa Bay Stallions Rugby League Park, Christchurch Canterbury 26 Tries: Sebastian Afamiliona, Arved Johnston, Vinnie Akuhata, Hone Rask (2) Goals: Delamar Taua (1), Darren Tonihi (2)

Waicoa Bay Stallions 24 Tries: Pio Pelesasa, Regy Manu (2), Te Humarire Maclean (2) Goals: Henare Ngauma (2)

Kiwi Cup 18's

Wellington vs Auckland Sea Lions Wise Park, Wellington Auckland Sea Lions 36 Tries: Victor Field, Miguel Start, Paul Tusa, Troy Becroft (2), Tuki Jackson (2) Goals: Jonathan Taurarii (1), Maurice Ah Voa (1), Victor Field (2)

Wellington 30 Tries: Ben Taraeka, Jack Lopa, Joshua Davis, Michael Lealava, Tera Cooper, Ashley Parker Goals: Hayden Magele (3)

Halftime Score: 16 - 14

Canterbury vs Waicoa Bay Stallions Rugby League Park, Christchurch Canterbury 44 Tries: Mikaere October, Antonio Tuitaupe, George Manufetoa, Kahu Wehi, Brackin Henry (2), Setaimata Sa (3) Goals: Quincy To'o To'o (4)

Waicoa Bay Stallions 20 Tries: Jermaine Muagututia, Te Ahitawai Johnson, Emmanuel Toka, David Pokiha Goals: Rory-James Haronga (2)

Roope Rooster Quarter Final Results:

Mt Albert Lions 28 Mangere East Hawks 26 Northcote Tigers 34 Bay Roskill Vikings 16 Manurewa Marlins 36 Ellerslie Eagles 12 Marist Saints 40 Otahuhu Leopards 28