MATCH REPORT - 7/9/22

Unfortunately for you all we understand the live stream was terrible so you may only have caught the last half of yesterday’s test.

Our Men did us unbelievably proud, rode the horses with respect and gave their all against a very polished and professional Australian Team .We started well with hard accurate runs and precise passing.

Angus McKelvie carved his way through solid Aussie defence twice early in the game to score two stunning goals. Oz started quite flustered and were shocked by our intensity early in the game. We had them under immense pressure to make quick backhands and matched them for horsepower also.

Our two youngsters looked completely at home out there and showed glimpses of class throughout. Ethan found himself in the right position often and scored quality goals under huge pressure. In the 4th chukka we had started even but the hosts got their flow on and with incredible goals from their captain Jack Archibald and great friend Alec White.

Our own Captain Craig Wilson played with true grit and captained his troops perfectly. As always Craig dominated his man and was quick to distribute ball to a hungry NZ pack.

Australia blew out to a lead of 8-4 at the end of the 4th and I think the hosts thought they had us beat. In true Nz style they dug in once more and got back to 10-8 in the last chukka with a 60yard penalty skimming the outside of the upright to be behind by 1.

Cody Grimes (17) showed class for the Ozzies and scored 3 field goals throughout the game with quality and finesse well above his years. Dylan Jones who played back for the ozzies, also a youngster (20) played solid at the back and grew in confidence throughout. A Mare named “Anna” owned by Peter Bennetto and played by Craig received our teams Champion Pony prize . Classy mare with massive power and very easy.

The penalty count was 12 against Oz and only 5 us. Boys super disciplined. We hit 8 behinds a piece .Final score 10-8 Australia We would like to thank the NZPA for making this possible for us and of course the APF for a well organised event.

A massive thanks to our kiwi connection in Australia “The Irvine Family “ along with Nick and Indi Keyte for all their hard work and generosity. Hope you all enjoyed the ride .

Simon Keyte