Sign In / Register
The future of ITM Cup rugby was on show in Warkworth this month in a pre-season clash between the North Harbour B Development team and Northland B.
It was a close match, but Northland won the game in the final minute with a runaway try leaving the score 26-21 at fulltime.
The teams play in the B division, one tier below ITM Cup level, and some of the players will likely progress to represent their province this season.
It was a frigid day at Warkworth Showgrounds on August 8, with a strong wind and intermittent showers, which saw spectators retreat to the clubrooms. But that didn’t dampen the vigour of the players.
Harbour took out the first half with two converted tries to lead 14-5 – Northland’s only first half try was scored by Wellsford player Conor Lawson. Northland hit back in the second half with three converted tries.
The Northland side had 10 players from Mahurangi – Wellsford players Mike MacDonald, Conor Lawson, Heath Colthurst, Paddy-Jo Atkins and Sean McCully; Waipu players Roberto Ozryan, Rupeni Vosayaco, Ilikesa Kalidredre and Graham Dewes, and Otamatea player Dalton Woodman. Dalton is the son of former All Black Kawhena Woodman and brother of Black Fern Portia Woodman. Graham Dewes represented Fiji at the Rugby World Cup in 2007 and 2011, and this is his first season with Waipu.
The North Harbour side had just one Mahurangi player on the field, Penaia Cakobau.
Mahurangi player Callan Venter has been selected for the side, but is still recovering from a broken ankle which he suffered earlier in season. Mahurangi player Ray Beamish has also made the side, but was promoted to the North Harbour B team for a match.
It was the only game the teams will play in Mahurangi this season in a schedule which sees them pitted against teams from across the upper North Island.
North Harbour team manager says it is the first time the development team has been playing in the B team grade, which will make it a tough season.
“Normally we play against other development teams, which is one step below the B grade, but this season the development teams have been incorporated into the B division. It will be a big step up, but it will give players the opportunity to get exposure to high quality rugby.”
