Junior Kiwis Out Played By
Aussies

The Junior Kiwis did not start their two test series against the Australian Schoolboys the way they wanted when they were convincingly beaten by 42 ? 24 at Olympic Park, Melbourne yesterday (Sunday 24 July).

With a very strong touring team there were high expectations on the Junior Kiwis who found the speed and kicking game of the Aussies hard to combat.

The Schoolboys had a strong wind behind them in the first half and had no hesitation in using it to their advantage with a great kick chase game which sent them to the break with an 18 ? 8 lead.

In the second half the Junior Kiwis started to claw their way back into the game and were very dominant and powerful on defence keeping the Aussies deep in their own territory.

This defensive effort caused the Aussies to spill the ball, knocking it on which looked good for the JK?s. This however, was missed by the referee who when the Aussies regathered waved play on and in turn lead to a length of time field try.

Junior Kiwis Manager, Richard Bolton commented ?We were a big chance up to that stage, but it proved the turning point.?

Stand out players were skipper Sam Rapira who led the team well and Frank-Paul Nuuausala was a real force in the forwards and scored a great try.

Five-eighth Daniel O?Regan directed play well in the backs and crossed the line twice himself. Keebra Park High School?s Matthew Parata and Wellington?s centre, Joshua Davis were the others to score on the day along with two successful conversions by Parata.

The JK?s will be working very hard over the next week with the goal of drawing the series with a win when they take on the Aussies in the 2nd test at Wynnum Manly on Saturday 30 July 2005, kick off at 7.00pm (9.00pm NZ Time).

RESULTS:

Australian Schoolboys 42

Junior Kiwis 24 Matthew Parata, Joshua Davis, Frank-Paul Nuuausala, Daniel O?Regan (2) : Tries Matthew Parata (2) : Goals

Halftime Score: 18 ? 8 To Australian Schoolboys