College scores OBHS sports exchange win
16 Jun 2021
For the first time since 1999, the Christ’s College 1st XV has beaten Otago Boys’ High School during the annual winter exchange sports tournament.
With tries to Jack Smith, Gus Orr, Jackson Thomas and Benji Ward, College was in formidable form, winning 26–13 at home on Tuesday. In the U15 rugby game, College came back from 7–21 down at the break to an impressive 40–21 win.
In total, 20 teams and more than 250 boys took to the field, court and turf to compete in often challenging foggy conditions in Christchurch, with College the overall victor, 5-4, across the codes.
In hockey, the 1st XI scored in the final minutes – thanks to Matt Hocquard – to secure a 2–2 draw while the Colts finished with a frustrating 2-4 loss following some missed opportunities. However, it was good to see boys from three Friday night teams working well together, with Finnian Chan-Allan making his debut at this level. Both Callum Gard and Matt Flint scored goals.
In football, the 1st Xl suffered its first loss of the season, 0–3, against a well-drilled OBHS side, despite the College team’s recent excellent form.
In the junior game, College battled against the solid OBHS defence, finishing with a 1-2 loss after Austin Smith scored the lone goal for College.
Both College basketball teams took the honours, with a 125-69 win to the seniors and a 115-74 victory to the juniors.
In the senior A game, College was dominant, with Tom Harrison leading the charge with 28 points and 10 rebounds. Nic Book (20 points/15 rebounds/5 assists), Hunter Adam (26 points/11 rebounds) and Josh Book (24 points/10 rebounds) were also all in top form.
In the junior game, Truman Heath finished with 25 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists while Ihaka Cate (17 points/9 rebounds), Hoani Ifopo-Togia (17 points/4 assists) and Aston Nijjar (17 points/10 rebounds) all impressed.
Our outstanding clay target shooting team was right on target, beating a very strong OBHS team with the final best five totals leaving College on 516/550 and OBHS on 508/550. George Helmore scored the highest from all shooters, with 74/75 in the points score event. College’s victory ended a long streak of wins for OBHS in inter-school matches.
Our squash team also stepped up to face OBHS. Despite some great rallies, College won only one game – with Nont Prachuabmoh victorious, despite an ankle injury.
Many thanks to all the coaches, managers and supporters for their hard work and the families who took billets to support the exchange.
