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Matt Wright assists Sage Walters-Hansen
Snatches were made.
Both sides in the first two quarters had chances, although failed to capitalise.
There were also U21 players on Wellsford’s reserve team.
Wellsford and Mahurangi Rugby Clubs locked horns at the Warkworth Showgrounds this month for their annual Battle of the Dome clash.
For the first two quarters, Mahurangi’s U21s played Wellsford’s premiere reserve team.
The U21s held their own, keeping the score at nil all at the end of the quarters.
The clubs’ premier sides took to the field at half time and played two 30 minute quarters.
Mahurangi got the better of Wellsford at the set piece, having a bigger scrum.
However, Wellsford made the most of a superior back line and snatched length of the field tries.
The back line was bolstered by Rene Ranger, who recently returned from his Super Rugby season with the Crusaders.
At the final whistle, the match was Wellsford’s by a healthy margin of 42-7.
Wellsford Rugby manager Mick Sweetman says it is a rebuilding year for the club with young forwards replacing experienced players recovering from surgery.
“It’s exciting to see these young guys coming through, but it may take them a while.”
However, Sweetman says the backline is on par with other top teams in Northland, and he is looking forward to giving it a run.
Last season, Waipu was the team to beat, but it is understood it has also lost some players.
Mid Northern Rugby Club may be the favourite after bolstering its ranks with Northland contracted players.
As Mahurangi Matters went to print, Wellsford was to play Mid Northern at Centennial Park for its first game of the season on March 27.
Wellsford’s next home game will be against Moerewa on April 10. It will also play Western Sharks (Dargaville) on April 24, Kamo on May 15 and Marist Old Boys on May 22, each time at Wellsford.
