Howick College’s girls’ First XV rugby team are Auckland champions after beating Auckland Girls Grammar (AGGS) 10-7 at a sodden Orakei Domain on Monday night.
The two sides had met earlier in the season with Howick trouncing AGGS 34-0, but going into the final Howick was at a disadvantage after not having played any footy for seven weeks after a series of defaults by their opposition.
Despite the earlier blowout, the final was tightly contested and played in front of a loyal bunch of parents and supporters who braved atrocious conditions.
Howick, with the advantage of a significant wind in the first half, took the early lead with a try from Uaina Lefau in the left corner to make the score 5-0.
In the second stanza, AGGS took the lead after a series of raids on Howick’s line resulted in a converted try.
AGGS held their lead until the game’s final throes until forwards Joy Fiu, Keana Farani, and Sina Mariner wrestled back possession and fed Asha Taumoepeau-Williams, who sprinted 25 metres to score, putting the east Aucklanders ahead.
Despite missing the conversion, Howick held their composure and Jaedah Hansen’s crucial sideways kick in the game’s last seconds secured the victory.
The final whistle brought an eruption of celebrations from both players and supporters underscoring the victory’s significance.
Coach Waisake Sotutu the Former Fiji, Auckland and Blues inside back reflected on the enormity of his team’s achievement:
“As this was our first year of 1st XV Rugby, we approached the season with the simple goal of competing effectively. Although we remained unbeaten in all our 15s games, including five byes -one of which was in the semi-final – the team faced challenges due to a long break without recent match play.
“Despite these obstacles, their performance was remarkable. While there may be some discussion around the final try, it’s all part of the game. I’m incredibly proud of the girls for their hard work and resilience, “Sotutu said.
While the regular season is over, the Howick team is not finished yet will now shift its focus to qualifying for the National Top 4 competition, a type of champions league in which the team will aim to represent the Blues region.
“Our next challenge will be against Westlake Girls on Monday 26 August, with the winner advancing to the Top 4 competition on 5th September in Palmerston North,” Sotutu said.
