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The Mahurangi College First XV rugby team has its sights set on a finals spot in the North Harbour 1B draw after winning its opening four games of the season.
The team has already beaten Kaipara College, Rosmini College, Rangitoto College and defending champions Westlake Boys High School.
Assistant coach Jon Blyth says the team has done everything possible so far to help ensure it reaches what could be its fifth consecutive final.
“In every game the boys have put up a good score and collected a bonus point for scoring at least four tries, which has put us at the top of the table,” Jon says.
The team got off to a dominant start beating Kaipara College First XV 41-0 before downing Westlake Boys High School Second XV 34-14.
First five Kade Banks has proved to be a pivotal player in the back line as one of the more experienced team members.
“Although we’re off to a great start, only two teams make it through to the play-off stage so it’s crucial we stay focused as we have plenty of games left to play, with two matches against every team.
“Because the squads change a lot more with Second XV teams, our opposition could be a bigger challenge the next time we face them.”
Mahurangi College has lost the last four consecutive finals against Westlake in the 1B competition.
“We definitely have a team that can win the competition this year and I think if we beat Westlake in both round robin matches, it would be a huge mental advantage if we were to face them again in a final.
“The key this year is to make sure we adjust our tactics for each game. Teams will learn to combat our strengths over time.”
Jon says the team’s biggest strengths this season are its set pieces, particularly the driving maul.
“The new players have learnt to fit in with the experienced ones to keep our shape for the whole game.
Other teams often get disjointed towards the end of the match.
“First five Kade Banks is also doing a fantastic job of directing the backs and controlling the game with his kicking. Pale is a great ball carrier who draws multiple defenders and has brought an offload into his game.”
Head boy Toby Swann-McKay also stood out after becoming the most capped Mahurangi First XV player since modern records began, overtaking former student Josh Shirley.
