Soaking up the atmosphere
12 Jun 2018
It was wet, wet, wet in Christchurch over Queen’s Birthday weekend, but nothing could dampen the enthusiasm of the boys taking part in the annual Rathkeale College–Christ’s College winter sports exchange.
Hockey
College started well and put early pressure on Rathkeale, which resulted in a goal to Tim Cross after some sharp passing and, 20 minutes in, a goal to Liam Adams, who was able to score after a good set up down the right hand side. Rathkeale responded early in the second half, scoring after a turnover and some nice one-two passing. The game then plateaued, with College dominating play and having more possession and territory, but not able to convert their advantage into goals.
College 2–Rathkeale 1
Football
College made a strong start against a very technically able side. Early chances came from a header by Ted Grigg off a well taken corner and the efforts of Finbar Gallaway, but the Rathkeale goalie was on form and made some fine saves. Good defensive work from Lachy Duff, Kynan Salt and Jordy Annand helped College weather the storm of Rathkeale pressure. Just on half-time, College scored, following some fine work down the left hand side by Sam King, finished by Jake Tacon.
In the second half, early chances from Tacon and Gallaway again tested the skills of the Rathkeale goalie, while tireless defensive work from Ted Grigg, Tom Tothill and Finn Brokenshire meant College was able to stay in front. The boys worked hard to get a well-deserved win.
College 1–Rathkeale 0
Rugby
Persistent rain and difficult conditions made for a stop start match. Rathkeale played the better wet weather rugby, taking every opportunity and, in the first quarter, establishing a 10-point lead through a converted try and a penalty. As the game progressed, handling and ball retention proved more and more difficult. Although there was no further scoring, Rathkeale remained dominant and, through their command of territory and possession, deserved the win.
College 0–Rathkeale 10
With two out of three matches going College’s way, the school won the exchange and retains the coveted Hamilton Tankard.
