The Otago Rugby League grand final is on this weekend at the University Oval no.5 in Dunedin just across the road from Forsyth Barr Stadium.
After a very competitive season the top two teams who have emerged are the South Pacific Raiders and the Bears. The South Pacific Raiders upset all calculations winning the minor and major semi finals to take their place in the final. The Bears, in their first year in the competition have been very competitive all year and deserving of their place as top qualifiers.
The Southern Zone and NZRL in conjunction with Its Not Ok are going to provide live streaming of the game which can be found on the Southern Zone Facebook page. The live streaming of the game is a new innivation for the Southern Zone and with the success of the live stream on the Southland final two weeks ago is eagerly awaited by rugby league fans.
At the venue, supporters and their families will be able to enjoy the occasion with the provision of a bouncy castle for young children thanks to the Dunedin Collaboration Against Family Violence and with NZRL partner Pirtek bringing its roadshow to the event with giveaways and game day promotions going on at the ground.
It will be a real festival occasion and is open to all to attend.
Kiwi #809 Esan Marsters’ take on the week in Denver where he made his Kiwis Test debut:
“It was a serious moment for me. A special moment.
So when the anthem singer in Denver didn’t know the words to ‘God Defend New Zealand’, I didn’t pay much attention. The emotion of representing my country at Test level for the first time took over me and I wasn’t going to let anything ruin it.
https://www.facebook.com/nzkiwis/videos/10155458230756881/
I had my left arm around Jamayne Isaako, who was also making his Test debut. I had Marty Taupau on my right. I had my eyes closed, my right hand over my heart. I just kept singing.
Watching it over again on all the videos that came out afterwards, the boys all tried to sing through it but, by the end, some looked like they were trying to hold it all in.
And that wasn’t the end of the unexpected twists.
Our flight home got cancelled due to an electrical storm in San Francisco. I’d certainly rather miss the flight and be safe than be on one where something went wrong, at least.
It was a bit of a shock to some of us, because we just wanted to get home and also get ready to play for our NRL clubs on the weekend. But it was pretty cool – we got to stay there one more night and spending some extra time with the boys was enjoyable, especially with it being my first New Zealand camp. Donny Singe, our high performance expert managed our recovery so we were all well looked after.
They just booked us into a hotel near the airport. Then, we all got put on different flights on the way home – with some mixed results.
Poor Marty Taupau was unlucky – it could have been any of the boys but it just happened to be him whose flight was again delayed. He just wanted to see his family and he wasn’t happy. But, he still backed up for Manly and played good footy for his club.
I was due back in Sydney on Tuesday with our original flight and instead ended up arriving home first thing Wednesday morning. I had that day off, which worked out well.
It was a shame that the flight delays happened, given there were some people intent on criticising the Test being played in Denver. I think having the game there was a really positive thing.
Regardless of what happened, I really enjoyed my time there. I look forward to going back – we’re committed to play a New Zealand vs England Test there for the next three years.
A mile-high debut
It was a bit different in Denver! The people are really nice in the US – they talk a lot, they like to ask you how your day is going, little stuff like that.
There were billboards of us playing displayed around the city. People were asking us, ‘What are you here for, are you here for the football match?’ It was cool that they knew we were there for a rugby league game. And we got a good crowd, nearly 20,000.
It shocked a lot of people how hot it was in Denver for the game, especially coming in from winter at home. It was near 30 degrees, more like days you get during early pre-season training. And of course, we were playing at the Denver Broncos’ famous Mile High Stadium (Sports Authority Field), so breathing felt a bit different at some stages of the game due to the altitude.
You can understand why the Broncos have always had a strong home-field advantage in the NFL. You can imagine that training in the altitude would make you much fitter and stronger, and make a difference when teams visit that aren’t used to the thinner air.
The boys did pretty well acclimatising, because it turned out to be a fast-paced game.
The emotion of representing my country at Test level for the first time took over me and I wasn’t going to let anything ruin it.
The Denver training facilities are very impressive. Being a successful NFL franchise, they’ve got the best of everything. It’s an eye-opener, seeing what they work with – it’s way different to Concord! A quarter of their weight training room is bigger than our Concord facilities, though we do have everything we need at Wests Tigers.
The main stadium is impressive, with a 76,000 capacity. They have three full-size training fields outside with heated turf. The practice facility is 115,000 square feet, including a full-length indoor field, so they can train regardless of the weather.
It was certainly an interesting place to make my Test debut.
It was massive for me, playing for the Kiwis. I loved being in camp with the team. Watching a Kiwi legend like Issac Luke go about his business was great and I loved being around other guys making their debut like Jamayne Isaako.
Scoring a try – so much emotion went into that try. Growing up as a kid, you always dream of those moments. I was so proud that my family got to see that. It was exciting too, knowing how much inspiration I got from the players who have come before me, to think about kids in New Zealand watching me score that try.
Benji Marshall was one of those players who was a massive inspiration for me. To now be able to train and play with him every week at Wests Tigers, it’s amazing. I’m very lucky to have that opportunity. Not many people can say they’ve played with one of the legends of the game and one of their heroes.
Rebuilding the Kiwis
I made the Junior Kiwis two years ago. That was emotional enough. I never in a million years thought that two years later, and just a year since my NRL debut, that I’d be playing for the Kiwis in a Test.
Any time you pull on that black jersey, representing not only yourself but your family, I hold that very highly. My family went to so much effort when I was a kid to make sure I had opportunities to play rugby league and succeed.
Michael Maguire called me himself to tell me I was making my debut. He called in the morning and that whole day I was buzzing, I didn’t know what to think. I was so excited, realising that all my hard work over the years had paid off.
Michael was a chilled-out guy. Being new to the Kiwis job and with a new-look team, I guess he was just as nervous as some of us were. He made us younger players feel welcome in his camp and gave us confidence that we could go out and do the job.
Benji Marshall was one of those players who was a massive inspiration for me. To now be able to train and play with him every week at Wests Tigers, it’s amazing.
We had seven debutants in that game and it felt like a really young team. We had to learn quickly. But the boys all handled themselves well and enjoyed the experience.
It was unlucky that we didn’t get the win in Denver but now, those younger players know what it’s like in Test footy and will be better for the experience. I’ve tasted what it’s like at that level and I want to go back to my club and improve my game even further.
I’m excited for what the future holds with our national team.
First seen on Players Voice.
The New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) would like to announce the appointment of the new Independent Board Director, Kiwi #686 Motu Tony.
Replacing John Bishop who retires after ten years of service to the NZRL Board, Motu Tony brings almost 20 years of experience in professional sport to the role.
Tony’s playing career included 13 Tests for the Kiwis between 2001 and 2006 winning the 2005 Tri-Nations, alongside stints with the New Zealand Warriors and Super League’s Hull FC.
Of recent, he has attained board experience with Baseball New Zealand, the New Zealand Rugby Union ‘Navigating Two Worlds’ Advisory Panel, the Rugby Football League Disciplinary Review Panel Committee and Hull FC Super League Limited to name a few. In addition to this, he is currently the Acting Chief Executive Officer at Baseball New Zealand following a successful tenure as the General Manager of Football Operations at Hull FC Super League.
At Hull FC, Tony led their high-performance programme which included the responsibilities of recruiting and retaining both players and staff, as well as the financial management of a live salary cap. Tony left Hull FC in 2017 to return to New Zealand after the club had won consecutive Challenge Clubs (2016 and 2017) and re-established itself as one of the premiere clubs in the Super League.
Reon Edwards, Chairman of the NZRL Board is pleased to have someone of Motu Tony’s high-performance expertise joining his team during this exciting period of change for the NZRL.
“Following the Castle review, it was imperative that we took on board the recommendation to make appointments that inject more high-performance knowledge into our organisation.
“As a proven sports leader, administrator and Director (both Executive and Non-Executive) with almost 20 years of experience in professional sport as both an athlete and administrator, Motu Tony more than fits the bill.
“We anticipate Motu will provide real value as we look to review the draft strategic plan with the help of the newly appointed CEO, Greg Peters,” he said.
Bio:
Board experience
2018 – Present Baseball New Zealand
2018 – Present New Zealand Rugby Union ‘Navigating Two Worlds’ Advisory Panel
2017 – Rugby Football League Disciplinary Review Panel Committee
2017 – Hull Rugby League Participation Committee
2016 -2017 – City of Hull Rugby League Academy Board of Directors
2014 -2017 – Hull Super League Limited Board of Directors
Other roles
2018 Interim Chief Executive Officer, Baseball New Zealand
2013-2017 General Manager of Football Operations, Hull FC Super League Limited
New Zealand Kiwis Rugby League 2001 – 2006
Professional Rugby League Player 2001 – 2012
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Debutants Esan Marsters and Ken Maumalo both gained almost 190 metres while James Fisher-Harris, Nelson Asofa-Solomona and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves led the defensive effort in the Kiwis’ 18-36 loss to England in Saturday’s historic Test at Mile High Stadium in Denver.
Centre Marsters, who scored the first try of the Test, finished with 188 metres from 13 runs while wing Maumalo had 187 metres from 18 carries.
Fisher-Harris topped the tackle count with 36 while Asofa-Solomona tallied 35 and Waerea-Hargreaves 34.
In the team stats, the Kiwis had to put up with a lopsided penalty count which ran 10-3 in England’s favour while they led the line breaks 7-4 and the off loads 27-11.
MATCH DETAILS
At Mile High Stadium, Denver
New Zealand Kiwis 18 (Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 2, Esan Marsters tries; Jamayne Isaako 3 conversions).
England 36 (Eliott Whitehead 2, John Bateman, Ryan Hall, Jake Connor, Tommy Makinson tries; Gareth Widdop 2 conversions, 2 penalties).
Halftime: 12-10 Kiwis.
Referee: Ben Thaler (England).
New Zealand Kiwis | Dallin Watene-Zelezniak; Jamayne Isaako, Esan Marsters, Peta Hiku, Ken Maumalo; Blake Green, Shaun Johnson; Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Issac Luke, Nelson Asofa-Solomona; Raymond Faitala-Mariner, Joseph Tapine; Martin Taupau. Interchange: James Fisher-Harris, Slade Griffin, Herman Ese’ese, Leeson Ah Mau.
England | Stefan Ratchford; Jermaine McGillvary, John Bateman, Mark Percival, Ryan Hall; Jonny Lomax, Gareth Widdop; Chris Hill, James Roby, James Graham; Sam Burgess, Elliott Whitehead; Sean O’Loughlin (c). Interchange: Jake Connor, Thomas Burgess, Tommy Makinson, Scott Taylor.
STATS
Team:
Penalties | 3-10.
Completions | 20/32 (62%); 30/36 (83%)
Total metres | 1721-1844
Kicks | 11-16
Kicking metres | 334-409
Errors | 11-7
Line breaks | 7-4
Line break assists | 5-2
Tackles | 321-269
Missed tackles |50-44
Ineffective tackles | 13-36
Off loads | 27-11
Individual:
Most metres |
Kiwis: Esan Marsters 188, Ken Maumalo 187, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 176, Nelson Asofa-Solomona 143, Jamayne Isaako 117
England: Jermaine McGillvary 191, Sam Burgess 189, Elliott Whitehead 155, Ryan Hall 149, Thomas Burgess 148
Most post-contact metres |
Kiwis: Ken Maumalo 75, Nelson Asofa-Solomona 56, Joseph Tapine 44, Raymond Faitala-Mariner 39, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 37
England: Sam Burgess 58, Jermaine McGillvary 57, Thomas Burgess 47, Ryan Hall 40, Scott Taylor 30, Chris Hill 30
Most runs |
Kiwis: Ken Maumalo 18, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 17, Jamayne Isaako 13, Esan Marsters 13, Nelson Asofa-Solomona 13, Raymond Faitala-Mariner 13
England: Jermaine McGillvary 19, Sam Burgess 19, Ryan Hall 16, John Bateman 13, Elliott Whitehead 12, Thomas Burgess 12
Most tackle breaks |
Kiwis: Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 8, Esan Marsters 6, Issac Luke 5
England: Ryan Hall 7, Tommy Makinson 7
Most tackles |
Kiwis: James Fisher-Harris 36, Nelson Asofa-Solomona 35, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 34, Issac Luke 29, Joseph Tapine 27
England: James Graham 39, James Roby 32, Sean O’Loughlin 25, Chris Hill 25, Scott Taylor 24
Off loads |
Kiwis: Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 5, Esan Marsters 4, Martin Taupau 3
England: Elliott Whitehead 4, John Bateman 3
Most supports |
Kiwis: Kodi Nikorima 15, Te Maire Martin 13, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 13
England: Stefan Ratchford 22, Jake Connor 14, Gareth Widdop 12
Most decoys |
Kiwis: James Fisher-Harris 5, Nelson Asofa-Solomona 5, Leeson Ah Mau 4
England: James Graham 7, Elliott Whitehead 6, Thomas Burgess 4
The New Zealand Rugby League are pleased to announce the 18 successful players who have been selected to represent the New Zealand Resident 16s.
This team will go head-to-head with the NZ Samoa 16s at Puketewhero Park, Rotorua on Thursday 12 July, 6pm kick off.
Bejay Hewitt, the New Zealand Resident 16s Head Coach says: “To be successful in this campaign we need to deliver and execute at the highest level. We believe we have selected a group of extremely talented young men who we feel are ready for this challenge. We are all excited about representing our country with passion & pride.”
Note: There will be no gate charge for any spectators who wish to attend.
2018 New Zealand Resident 16s listed by Zone/District:
Akarana: Asolelei Fretton, Lani Graham-Taufa, Lleyton Finau, Luani Tavake Naufahu Whyte, Samuel McIntyre, T.J. Devery, Moala Graham-Taufa; Counties Manukau: Quinnlan Tupou, Sione Moala, Mase Carson, Jarney Proctor-Harwood, Jeremiah Margraff, Otukinekina Kepu, Taniela Otukolo, Valingi Kepu; Bay of Plenty (Upper Central Zone): Dayna Bidois, Legacy Katene; Wellington: Blaine Betham-Taape.
Head Coach: Bejay Hewitt
Assistant Coach: Chris Langley
Assistant Coach: Eugene Davis
Manager: Wayne Boyes
Trainer: Sean Witanga
A cracker first half in front of a 19,320 strong crowd wasn’t enough to make the Kiwis victorious against England at the Denver Test going down 18-36.
Esan Marsters, one of seven debutants started his Kiwis career with the first try of the match off the back of Kodi Nikorima’s quick feet and offload. Marsters backed that up with some moments of brilliance on attack and when partnering with Peta Hiku, was a weapon the English struggled to stop.
Oustanding in the fullback position, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak got his reward, the first of his two tries following a line-break from veteran Issac Luke. Another conversion from Jamayne Isaako bringing the score to 12-0.
Wayne Bennett’s men trailed 12-0 before Connor was thrust into action after a number of defensive lapses by five-eighth Jonny Lomax and set up two first-half tries before scoring one himself as England continued the form which took them to last year’s World Cup final.
After running in a converted and unconverted try, England chewed away at the Kiwis’ lead taking the score to 12-10 as they ran into the sheds at halftime.
The Kiwis were starved of the ball in the second half making several mistakes that cost them. Although he showed fine form in a Test that has reinvigorated his Kiwis career, Issac Luke was guilty of kicking the ball over the dead ball line on the full three times conceding penalties for each.
England halfback Gareth Widdop landed a 50-metre penalty goal with ease after Isaako’s 55th-minute mistake, while there was limited kicking in general play.
The Kiwis started the better team and played an attacking brand of football in their first Test under Michael Maguire, while forwards Martin Taupau and Nelson Asofa-Solomona kept the crowd entertained with some big hits in the opening minutes.
It was a different England side in the second half and Widdop levelled the scores in the 46th minute with a penalty goal after Luke stepped on the hand of England centre.
England took control of the game following Whitehead’s second try in the 53rd minute after replacement Tommy Makinson swooped on a Widdop grubber.
A 56th-minute penalty goal by Widdop from halfway put England ahead 20-12 and Connor scored a try for himself when he beat Nikorima and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves before dummying past Watene-Zelezniak in the 60th minute.
Fellow rookie Makinson scored a long-range try in the 65th minute before Watene-Zelezniak scored his second try of the match. Final score, 18-36.
Slade Griffin is set to follow in the footsteps of his uncle, John Griffin, after being selected to make his debut for New Zealand in the Test against England on Saturday (Sunday, 6am AEST) at Mile High Stadium.
Griffin, who was born in Australia but raised in Greymouth on the West Coast of the South Island, will start the historic Test on the interchange but New Zealand coach Michael Maguire is yet to finalise his team, with two positions undecided.
Maguire has confirmed that Brisbane’s Jamayne Isaako and Ken Maumalo of the Warriors would start on the wings but he is undecided whether to also give a debut to Wests Tigers centre Esan Marsters or play Brisbane’s Jordan Kahu.
The other position yet to be settled is on the interchange, with Newcastle forward Herman Ese’ese vying with Sydney Roosters backrower Isaac Liu, who has impressed Maguire with his ability to play on an edge as well as in the middle.
Canterbury’s Raymond Faitala-Mariner is set to start his first Test in the second row, alongside Canberra’s Joseph Tapine, while St George Illawarra forward Leeson Ah Mau will also make his Kiwis debut on the interchange, along with Griffin.
For Griffin, Test selection will continue a family tradition after his uncle John played for the Kiwis in 1982, along with the likes of Mark Graham, Hugh McGahn, Olsen Filipaina, Howie and Kevin Tamati, Mark Broadhurst, James Leuluai and Clayton Friend.
John Griffin was also the 1982 West Coast Rugby League player of the year.
“My whole family is very proud,” Griffin said. “My uncle actually played for the Kiwis too so my family is a very proud rugby league family and they love the Kiwis so me getting the call up is something special.
“I am going to represent my home town of Greymouth, my family and pull on the black and white New Zealand jersey.”
Griffin was born in Glen Innes and would be eligible to play State of Origin for NSW but while his brother and sister consider themselves to be Australian he always wanted to represent the Kiwis.
“I am a New Zealander, I was just born in Australia,” Griffin said. “My mum lived in Australia for five years but I grew up in Greymouth and my mother, and my grandmother, grew up in Greymouth, so my family has been there for generations.”
The 27-year-old hooker, who joined Newcastle this season after six years as a deputy to Cameron Smith in Melbourne, has a relationship with Maguire from his time at the Storm as an assistant coach.
Despite the absence of big names such Shaun Johnson, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Adam Blair and Jesse Bromwich through injury, suspension or unavailability, the Kiwis still boast a strong forward pack, which includes Issac Luke, Martin Taupau, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Nelson Asofa-Solomona and James Fisher-Harris.
Centre Peta Hiku has played 10 Tests for the Kiwis, while fullback Dallin Watene-Zelezniak has represented New Zealand six times previously on the wing.
If there is an area the Kiwis could be vulnerable it is the halves as neither Kodi Nikorima or Te Maire Martin are guaranteed starting players for their clubs.
“We have got a few debutants but they have all been playing good for their clubs and I know they are excited to represent their country,” Hiku said.
“Hopefully everyone can bring the form they have had for their clubs and we can get the win. It is the first Test in Denver, everyone who is here wanted to be a part of it and we are all excited to be playing.”
Seen on nrl.com first:
https://www.nrl.com/news/2018/06/21/slade-griffin-to-continue-family-tradition-with-new-zealand-kiwis-selection-as-michael-maguire-mulls-final-two-spots/
Head Coach Michael Maguire has confirmed the seven players chosen in the squad to travel to Denver will all make their Test debuts for the Kiwis in the international against England at Mile High Stadium on Saturday.
In a match which will also mark his international initiation, Maguire will use three new faces in the backline, one in the starting pack and three on the interchange.
Warriors wing Ken Maumalo teams up on the left edge with experienced club-mate Peta Hiku while Esan Marsters (Wests Tigers) and Jamayne Isaako (Brisbane Broncos) are paired on the right edge.
Greymouth-raised hooker Slade Griffin (Newcastle Knights), props Leeson Ah Mau (St George Illawarra) and Herman Ese’ese (Newcastle Knights) plus back rower James Fisher-Harris (Penrith Panthers) make up the bench.
Maguire has named Jared Waerea Hargreaves (Sydney Roosters) and Nelson Asofa-Solomona (Melbourne Storm) as his starting props with Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles middle forward Marty Taupau starting at loose forward.
Ah Mau, Maumalo, Ese’ese and Faitala-Mariner have all previously played at Test level for Toa Samoa while Marsters has represented Cook Islands.
NEW ZEALAND KIWIS v ENGLAND Mile High Stadium, Denver 2.00pm, Saturday, June 23, 2018
The career of St George Illawarra forward Leeson Ah Mau has come full circle, with the 28-year-old set to fulfil a lifelong ambition to play for the Kiwis in this weekend’s Denver Test before next season’s move home to New Zealand with the Warriors.
Ah Mau, who has been in career-best form for the Dragons, represented Samoa in 16 Tests but he grew up in Auckland dreaming of wearing a black jersey and is understood to have had discussions with New Zealand officials about playing for the Kiwis at last year’s World Cup.
After being overlooked for the tournament, Ah Mau again played for Samoa and he had been resigned to never being selected for New Zealand until new coach Michael Maguire phoned him about the June 23 Test against England at Mile High Stadium.
“Madge called me a couple of weeks ago to kind of get a gauge of where I was at and he said that I was in the picture,” Ah Mau told NRL.com.
“I was pretty shocked and at the same time pretty excited about representing New Zealand.
“I grew up in Auckland, and as a young kid it was definitely a dream to represent my country of birth. Mum and Dad were born in Samoa so in the past I have represented them but I am definitely honoured and grateful, and it is a dream come true to be here at the moment.”
Ah Mau played for the Junior Kiwis in 2006 and 2007, while playing in the Intrust Super Premiership for the Warriors and he made his NRL debut for the club in 2009.
After two seasons with North Queensland and seven for St George Illawarra, Ah Mau will return to the Warriors in 2019 in a move that will enable him to be closer to his parents, Isaak and Vaaiga, and wife Rose’s family.
In a sign of how much family means to the 110kg prop, NRL.com was told that there was little difference between the money the Warriors and Dragons offered him but he turned down a more lucrative offer from Newcastle.
“I owe a lot to the Dragons. We have been doing pretty well this season so I guess that helps to get these little rewards because of what we are doing down at the Dragons,” Ah Mau said.
Seen first on nrl.com:
https://www.nrl.com/news/2018/06/19/leeson-ah-mau-comes-full-circle-with-kiwis-selection/
While Peta Hiku knows what it’s all about, new team-mate Jamayne Isaako is just three days away from his first taste of Test football when the New Zealand Kiwis face England in Saturday’s historic ‘Big hits, no pads’ international at Denver’s Mile High Stadium.
The relative veteran Hiku, with 10 Tests to his name, and the exciting Isaako were in the media’s focus today.
Only just turned 22, Christchurch-born and raised Isaako is in his first full NRL season after making his debut with the Broncos last year.
Appearing in each of the Broncos’ 14 games so far this year, he already has 115 points from eight tries, 41 goals and a field goal.
The goal-kicking arm of his game also has him competing for the kicking responsibilities in the Denver Test alongside other sharp operators Issac Luke, Jordan Kahu and Esan Marsters.
Isaako, whose background as a young player was in rugby union, is taking in his rapid rise in rugby league after originally being scouted by Cronulla before moving to the Broncos.
After just a day and a half in Denver, he has been absorbing his selection and now his first day training alongside his Kiwi team-mates.
“To be honest it never crossed my mind about being selected to play for the Kiwis,” Isaako said after the field session.
“It was about a week or two before the selection was made that I got a phone call. ‘Madge’ (Maguire) gave me a call and said the team wasn’t finalised but I was in a good spot for being selected.
“I was shocked that I got a call from him to represent my country. I definitely wasn’t expecting that.”
While Isaako is soaking it all up, Hiku, who normally plays on the right edge inside David Fusitu’a with the Vodafone Warriors, has been running on the left edge with his other club-mate and first-time Kiwi Ken Maumalo.
The Kiwis have further field and gym sessions tomorrow, the training session at the University of Denver being the second and last full run before Friday’s final field outing at Mile High Stadium ahead of the Test on Saturday.
Later in the afternoon Maguire will release his Test team.
New Zealand Kiwis players can’t say enough about the measures taken to ensure they arrived in Denver in the best shape possible for Saturday’s historic Test against England at Mile High Stadium.
Little more than two hours after settling into their accommodation in downtown Denver, new Head Coach Michael Maguire, team doctor Greg Macleod and Penrith Panthers utility Dallin Watene-Zelezniak all said the team’s travel strategy had worked well.
Watene-Zelezniak said the players had been totally impressed with the measures put in place.
“The doctor gave us times that we needed to sleep, times we needed to eat, the water we needed to drink, and all the boxes have been ticked,” he said.
“It’s actually been really cool to learn about how to prepare for games like this … I feel that we’ve been treated like kings.”
Travelling in business class on United Airlines, the players were in the air for close to 17 hours as they flew more than 13,500 kilometres.
Macleod was pleased with the players’ condition.
“I feel we’ve arrived ready considering how far we’ve come and what we’ve had to do … we’re pretty happy,” he said.
“There was a lot of talk around this trip and the potential risks and the player welfare issues … so the planning for this trip started well before we arrived.”
Massage was on the menu post-flight tonight and the players will have more massage sessions this week to optimise their preparation for the Test. The players also had a photo shoot – including a team photo – soon after arriving.
For new coach Michael Maguire tomorrow (Tuesday in Denver) means real business at last as he guides the Kiwis in a field session for the first time. There’ll be another field session on Wednesday and a final run on Friday after a day off on Thursday. There’ll also be strength work tomorrow and on Wednesday.
Outside their training schedule, the Kiwis are set to see the Colorado Rockies take on the New York Mets in Major League Baseball on Wednesday evening.
Seven players are in line to make their Test debuts for the New Zealand Kiwis after being named in the 19-man squad for the historic international against England at Mile High Stadium in Denver, Colorado, on Saturday, June 23.
In what will be his first Test as head coach Michael Maguire has called up wings Ken Maumalo (Vodafone Warriors) and Jamayne Isaako (Brisbane Broncos), centre Esan Marsters (Wests Tigers), front rowers Leeson Ah Mau (St George Illawarra Dragons) and Herman Ese’ese (Newcastle Knights), hooker Slade Griffin (Newcastle Knights) and second rower Raymond Faitala-Mariner (Canterbury-Bankstown).
“I’m excited for each of them and for everyone included for the first major rugby league international ever played in the United States,” said Maguire.
“We have a group of players here who have all been in great form so far this season and totally deserve this chance.
“What has really struck home is just how passionate the players have been when talking to them about playing for the Kiwis and about this Test. They’re busting to be involved.
“It’s also hugely exciting on a personal level to not only be involved in coaching again but to have the privilege of doing so with New Zealand.”
Maguire resumes his coaching career after winning grand finals with South Sydney and Wigan as well as guiding Wigan to Challenge Cup success.
As well as the seven potential debutants, Maguire will have a core of experience in hooker Issac Luke (Vodafone Warriors), front rowers Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (Sydney Roosters) and Martin Taupau (Manly Warringah Sea Eagles) plus centre Peta Hiku (Vodafone Warriors).
“This is our first opportunity to create an expectation towards taking the Kiwi jersey back to the top of international rugby league,” said Maguire.
Of the newcomers, the most experienced is Ah Mau (27), who started his 168-game NRL career with the Vodafone Warriors in 2009. He has tasted international football with 16 Tests for Toa Samoa including last year’s Rugby League World Cup. Maumalo, Ese’ese and Faitala-Mariner have also played at Test level for Samoa while Marsters has represented Cook Islands.
The Kiwis have assembled in Sydney before flying out for Denver tomorrow morning.
NEW ZEALAND KIWIS | DENVER TEST
Frank Endacott reflects on his days as Kiwis Head Coach, the passion and pride that comes with playing for your country and memories of Kiwis legends such as Stacey Jones.
“I remember Stacey Jones watching TV at 10 o’clock at night sitting there in his Kiwis jersey two days before the Test – the pride he had in playing for his country was phenomenal…”
The New Zealand Rugby League was proud to see Kiwi Ferns captain Laura Mariu named among the Queen’s Birthday Honours recipients on Monday 4 June. Laura was awarded an MNZM (Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit) for her service to rugby league.
Following a weekend of triple celebrations that saw Mariu captain the Counties Manukau Stingrays to their ninth successive national title, and earning herself a spot on the Kiwi Ferns wider squad for October’s triple-header in Auckland, being awarded an MNZM was the icing on top.
Laura Mariu has played in all five Women’s Rugby League World Cups (2000, 2003, 2008, 2013, 2017) and subsequently boasts three time world champion status. As the captain of the Kiwi Ferns, Laura has dedicated, 17 years of her life to the game of rugby league and is role model to all young women aspiring to reach the pinnacle of our game.
Despite announcing her retirement from World Cup rugby league, Laura couldn’t pass up the opportunity to play in October’s triple-header.
“After the World Cup I thought I’d hang up the boots on my Kiwi Ferns career but I just can’t stay away.
“While my body still allows me I’m keen to play in that Kiwi Ferns jersey if they’ll have me,” she said.
For most of her working life Laura found employment which suited her rugby league career. But after the 2017 World Cup she began training at the police academy. Laura graduated in early May and is now serving in the Counties-Manukau district.
New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) wishes to honour Kiwi #731 Simon Mannering for his outstanding service to the New Zealand Kiwis and the NZRL upon the announcement that he has retired from international rugby league.
Mannering has pulled on the Kiwis jersey 45 times making him one of the most capped New Zealand internationals behind Ruben Wiki (55), Gary Freeman (46) and Stacey Jones (46).
Simon epitomises the values of the NZRL and brought masses of passion and pride to the side each time he appeared in black and white.
After talking with Kiwis Coach Michael Maguire, he was confident that his time to hang up the boots had come.
“I’ve had this on my mind for a while,” said Mannering.
“The idea of taking a Test to the United States is really exciting for the game but I think it’s a good time for younger players to be given every opportunity.
“I was honoured to wear the Kiwi jersey every time and it’s been a huge privilege having the chance to play alongside so many outstanding players. It was also a special honour to captain my country.”
Maguire looks forward to his on-going involvement with the Kiwis as a mentor and knowledgeable leader of the game.
“In his years of being a Kiwi, there is no doubt that Simon has made his country proud. There is a reason so many budding rugby league players idolise his abilities on the field and the way he holds himself off the field makes him a true Kiwi role model.
“His leadership has developed and mentored a lot of young and up-and-coming players not only at club level, but at international level too. He has also left his own legacy on the new generation of Kiwi players coming through.
“Sometime down the track, I hope to work alongside Simon as his knowledge and expertise as a Kiwi international will be highly beneficial in and around the squad,” Maguire said.
As a second-rower, back-rower or centre, and being dubbed as ‘Mr. Consistent’, Mannering is a defensive specialist that teammates love having near them on the field.
He made his Kiwis debut in 2006 at the Tri Nations tournament playing in every game of the series and was named Kiwis Rookie of the Year.
In 2008, Mannering was named in the Kiwis Rugby League World Cup squad scoring two tries in their second match against Papua New Guinea. His Kiwis career highlight came when New Zealand was victorious at the 2008 World Cup beating the Kangaroos 34-20.
He was selected in the Kiwis squad for the 2010 Four Nations tournament and played off the bench in the Four Nations warm-up Test against Samoa at Auckland’s Mount Smart Stadium, which the Kiwis won 50–6.
During the Four Nations, Mannering featured in all of the Kiwis’ regular tournament games at Second Row. Earning selection in the centres for the Grand Final match against Australia at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium, New Zealand won the game 16–12 and the 2010 Four Nations tournament.
He assumed the captaincy from Benji Marshall and led the Kiwis at the 2013 World Cup and at the 2014 Four Nations. In 2014, he was named Kiwis Player of the Year.
Mannering and his team continued their great record in Brisbane with a commanding 26–12 victory in 2015 giving them their first Anzac Test win since 1998.
Following an injury in 2016, Simon resumed his Kiwis career playing in three of the four 2017 Rugby League World Cup games taking his Test caps to 45 and equalling the feats of Kiwi #640 Stephen Kearney.
Joining Mannering in retiring from international rugby league is Kiwi #756 Ben Matulino and Kiwi #768 Russell Packer. The West Tigers teammates played in 23 and seven Tests respectively.
Matulino’s seven year Kiwis career (2009-2015) saw him debut for the New Zealand team during the Four Nations 62-12 win over France. In 2010, he was part of the Four Nations winning Kiwis side and went on to play in the 2011 and 2014 Four Nations, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2015 ANZAC Tests, and played in five matches of the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.
Packer debuted for the Kiwis in 2011 at a one-off Test against Australia in Newcastle en route to the Four Nations in the United Kingdom and following a turbulent period in his rugby league career, returned to international rugby league at the 2017 ANZAC Test. At the 2017 Rugby League World Cup he played in all four games for the Kiwis and now closes the curtain on his Kiwis career.
Notes:
Simon Mannering – Kiwi #731 2006 – 2017 45 Tests
Ben Matulino – Kiwi #756 2009 – 2015 23 Tests
Russell Packer – Kiwi #768 2011 – 2017 7 Tests
By Bruce Cross PDRLNZ Board Member
Physical Disability Rugby League continues to grow. The Vodafone Warriors and I put up a trophy, and last November, Physical Disability Rugby League New Zealand, hosted an inaugural International tournament – the Auckland PDRL Nines.
The tournament involved the Tigers, Rabbitohs, Roosters and Manly, as well as New Zealand, playing as the Vodafone Warriors PDRL, and who went on to win the final 6-0 over the Tigers.
PDRLNZ ambassador James Gavet was on hand to present the trophy.
The game is a modified version of league for players with a physical disability who wouldn’t otherwise be able to play. It does not shy away from the impact, collision and physicality of league, but has full contact, partial contact and touch elements, so that it caters for a wide spectrum of impairments, including amputees, cerebral palsy, neuromuscular disorders, limb deficiencies and acquired brain injuries. The rules allow two able bodied players a team, and provide for both male and female players.
In New Zealand, initial efforts to form a team date back to 2014. But PDRL can genuinely lay claim to being Australian. It was started back in 2010 and has the support of the NRL and its clubs.
Following on from its initial success, PDRLNZ continued to create history in February, sending a team to the 2018 Commonwealth Championships in Brisbane, with the New Zealand squad playing a world first PDRL international Tri-test series against Australia and the Commonwealth All Stars. The Commonwealth Championships was an amazing experience with players from Auckland, Christchurch, Rotorua, Taupo and New South Wales all earning the right wear the New Zealand jersey.
But it’s not just on the field where PDRLNZ is leaving its mark. Founder Sandra Hickey says many players doubt they can play league. “But we are proud to say PDRLNZ is having a radical impact on the physically disabled community, inspiring many players to not only grow physically, but also boosting their mental health, self-confidence and social interaction along the way.”
Having strengthened its Board, further support from within league is seen as critical. The passing of Masters founder Phil Campbell has left a hole for PDRLNZ to fill, and it is trying to identify someone as a top priority.
PDRLNZ’s main goals are to find more players, start a local competition, and find more league connections to help it network and grow the game.
Corporate sponsorship and support to ensure it can field a team at the inaugural PDRL Emerging Nations World Championships in Sydney in October is also paramount.
The Vodafone Warriors continue their support by hosting an upcoming “Have a go” day at Mt Smart on 16 June from 10.30am to 12 noon. Those interested, especially those with a physical disability, are encouraged to come along and meet the NZ PDRL squad, and have a go.
The trophy won by the Vodafone Warriors PDRL team will be on display.
You can register at COMMUNITY@WARRIORS.KIWI.
Following a blockbuster final at NZRL’s National Women’s Tournament, the Kiwi Ferns wider squad has been named ahead of preparations for the Kiwi Ferns, Kiwis and Junior Kiwis triple-header to be held in Auckland on 13 October.
The squad of 33 includes some fresh development prospects, products of the ever-growing women’s game, as well as many seasoned veterans carrying years of international experience.
Despite closing the curtain on World Cup rugby league, Laura Mariu has proven she’s still performing at the top level admitting the appeal of playing in October’s triple-header was too strong.
“After the World Cup I thought I’d hang up the boots on my Kiwi Ferns career but I just can’t stay away. While my body still allows me I’m keen to play in that Kiwi Ferns jersey if they’ll have me,” she said.
She also celebrates her naming on the New Zealand Order of Merit in the Queen’s Birthday Honours announced today for her outstanding service to rugby league.
While there will be some additions to the squad as dispensations, injuries and overseas players in contention are considered, Kiwi Ferns Coach Kelvin Wright is excited to begin his journey with the squad that promises some “real raw talent”.
“The squad I’ll be working with in the lead-up to October’s triple-header is exactly what any coach can hope for, full of talent and rugby league smarts.
“With the right support I believe we can create something pretty special as a team,” he said.
“It’s great to see women from the regions putting their hand up and excited to work alongside the women to ensure we have the best team on the field in October,” he said.
Preparations for the Test against the Jillaroos in October will be further enhanced by the opportunity for players to compete in the new NRL Women’s Competition.
New Zealand Rugby League Talent Manager David McMeeken was singing his praises for the level of play demonstrated over the three day tournament.
“In wet, muddy conditions over two of the three days of play there was some exceptional football on display. The players and staff were a credit to all the regions represented and there was a great environment created around the venue from them all, despite the conditions.
“This squad provides Kelvin with plenty of experience and also some youth players who have showcased some unique ability throughout the tournament, who if exposed to a higher level of coaching and surrounded with the experience within the squad, we could potentially see some of those players at the next World Cup,” McMeeken said.
Kiwi Ferns wider squad:
AKARANA: Alice Vailea, Crystal Tamaru, Georgia Hale, Karley Te Kawa, Lara Diamond-Brahne, Ngatokotoru Arakua, Shontelle Woodman, Annetta-Claudia Nuuausala, Lisa Edwards; CANTERBURY: Masuisuimatamaalii Tauasa Pauaraisa; COUNTIES: AieshaLeigh Smalley, Amber Kani, Apii Nicholls-Pualau, Hilda Peters, Kaylen Ikitule, Kerehitina Matua, Kimiora Nati, Krystal Rota, Langi Veainu, Laura Mariu, Lavinia Tauhalaiku, Louisa Gago, Onjeurlina Leiataua, Raquel Anderson-Pitman, Teuila Fotu-Moala, Sarah Filimoeatu; AUCKLAND VULCANS: Ma’atuleio Fotu-Moala, Tanika Jazz Noble-Bell; WAI-COA-BAY: Honey Hireme, Kanyon Paul, Lakiila Gudgeon, Te Whetumarama Nuku; WELLINGTON: Acacia Te Iwimate.
Without batting an eye lid, National Women’s Tournament Grand-finalists Counties and Akarana took on the stormy conditions at Cornwall Park and it was Counties who came out on top to win their ninth successive title.
This year’s victory was extra special for Kiwi Fern veteran Laura Mariu who also celebrates her naming on the New Zealand Order of Merit in the Queen’s Birthday Honours announced today.
Big-hits and classy tricks were on display with Counties drawing first blood after the opening 20 minutes was spent in the middle of the field, neither team ready to give their opposition a look in. That was until Counties left winger Sarah Filimoeatu sealed herself a try putting first points on the board – the defending champions up by four as they headed into the break.
Five minutes into the second half and Counties were one man down with half Kimiora Nati being sent off for a professional foul.
Akarana took full advantage with Billy-Jean Ale leveling the scoreboard with a try beside the post, 4-4.
An off-load from Kimiora Nati sent Onjeurlina Leiataua, who picked up the MVP of the tournament award, over the line to take an 8-4 lead which was then converted by Nati to take it to 10-4.
And from there, it was full steam ahead for Counties who sealed the deal with one more try to Sarah Filimoeatu who picked up her second four pointer of the day, the final score being 14-4.
To watch the livestream, click here.
https://www.facebook.com/NZLeague/photos/pb.100884206638417.-2207520000.1528079087./1873494986043988/?type=3&theater
Awards:
Back of the Tournament – Apii Nicholls-Pualau (Counties)
Forward of the Tournament – Karley Te Kawa (Akarana)
MVP of the Tournament – Onjeurlina Leiataua (Counties)
MVP of the Final – Chrystal Tamarua (Akarana)
Coach of the Tournament – Rod Ratu (Counties)
Trainer of the Tournament – Vili Johnson (Auckland Vulcans)
Finals Day scores:
5th & 6th play-off: Wai-Coa-Bay 8 (Lavinia McGee-Repia, Te Kowhai Boynton tries) – Wellington 0
3rd & 4th play-off: Canterbury 13 (Cassie Siataga 2 tries; Cassie Siataga goal; Cassie Siataga field goal) Auckland 12 (Tanika-Jazz Noble-Bell, Leanne Gardiner tries; Aleisha Taylor 2 goals)
Grand-Final: Counties 14 (Sarah Filimoeatu 2, Onjeurlina Leiataua tries; Kimiora Nati goal) Akarana 4 (Billy-Jean Ale try)
Plagued by torrential rain and gail force winds, day two of the National Women’s Tournament at Cornwall Park brought plenty of spills, thrills and moments of brilliance.
In what will be a repeat of last year’s final, the Counties Manukau Stingrays will come up against the Akarana Falcons in hopes of securing their ninth successive national title.
https://www.facebook.com/NZLeague/photos/a.102005069859664.2797.100884206638417/1872485416144945/?type=3&theater
This morning’s first game saw Akarana take on Wellington in a game many wouldn’t have predicted to have been so close. Akarana’s strong defence held Wellington down in their own half for the majority of the first half. Those efforts resulting in the first four points on the board through Akarana’s stand-off, Alice Vailea who scored by the post.
Akarana’s sheer ability to force errors at crucial times put the pressure on Wellington to get the basics right – and that they did. Wellington shifted into second gear meeting their opposition’s defensive line at speed, forcing errors from the Akarana camp only metres out from their try-line.
A risky offload by Wellington in their own half saw Akarana score after a solid carry by Billy-Jean Ale carrying two with her all the way to the try-line – score 8-0.
It wasn’t till later in the first half when Wellington decided to surge. By completing their sets and applying pressure to Akarana’s defence, Wellington’s Jayme Nuku managed to get their first points on the board converting her own try to make it 8-6 right before half time.
The second half saw Wellington give away several penalties and of course Akarana capitalised with Laishon Jones putting her hand up for a four-pointer.
Despite Wellington’s Mahalia Polson running in their second converted try of the game, Akarana held on by the skin of their teeth securing a close 14-12 victory.
Another close encounter was the Canterbury v Wai-Coa-Bay decider which would see the winner take on Counties in a semi-final, a crucial game for both teams who were desperate for a win.
https://www.facebook.com/NZLeague/videos/1872273712832782/
It was Wai-Coa-Bay who began their tirade first with a strong set forcing a line drop-out however, a series of turnovers saw no significant field position for any team in the first half with a nil all scoreline heading into the break.
Back-to-back repeat sets for Canterbury in Wai-Coa-Bay’s half saw Cassie Siataga score a fabulous try running through a hole from a short ball. With eight minutes to go, Canterbury were up 4-0.
A beautiful set move from the scrum saw Canterbury strike again minutes later – 8-0. Wai-Coa-Bay were determined to have the last laugh although their final attempts weren’t enough to beat the Cantabrians, with Honey Hireme doing what she does best, running in a try on the final hooter – Final score 8-4.
With both Akarana and Counties winning their semi-finals convincingly, 22-0 and 50-0 respectively, many will watch on to see if Akarana will finally overcome the wrath of Counties to be crowned the 2018 National Women’s Tournament champions.
https://www.facebook.com/NZLeague/videos/1872415826151904/
Counties v Canterbury livestream below:
https://www.facebook.com/NZLeague/videos/1872345536158933/
Click here for photo album of day two
National Women’s Tournament – Day two
Cornwall Park
Sunday, 3 June
Round three:
Akarana 14 – Wellington 12 Counties 12 – Auckland Vulcans 2 Canterbury 8 – Wai-Coa 4
Semi-Finals:
Akarana 22 – Auckland 0
Counties 50 – Canterbury 0
Next games: Monday, 4 June
Cornwall Park, Auckland
5th & 6th playoff: Wellington v Wai-Coa-Bay – 10.30am
3rd & 4th playoff: Canterbury v Auckland – 11.30am
Final: Akarana v Counties – 1pm (livestreamed on NZRL Facebook page)
Kiwis Coach Michael Maguire is calling on top level expertise to round-off his team of staff for the ground-breaking Test in Denver against England on 23 June.
Kiwi #673 Nathan Cayless and former North Sydney Bears Coach, Ben Gardiner both join Maguire in the assistant coach role, two appointments the Head Coach says will add a lot of value to his coaching staff.
“I’ve been hired to do a job – assemble the best possible team of players who want to put their hand up and say, ‘I want to play for New Zealand wherever it might be’. Every single player I’ve spoken to has really shown quite a bit of emotion about wanting to play for that jersey.
“Part of doing that means having the right expertise around me – people that are just as hell-bent on putting pride into that Kiwis jersey as I am. These two are top blokes who I believe will do exactly that,” Maguire said.
Cayless is best known as the Kiwi legend who captained the team to World Cup victory in 2008, and recently took charge of the Junior Kiwis as Head Coach in 2017. He became a household name playing rugby league at the highest level and has also built up an impressive coaching portfolio too.
Cayless took on the Wentworth Magpies ISP NSW team as Head Coach in 2016 after a stint as Head Coach of the Eels SG Ball side, and another as assistant coach of the Blue and Gold Holden Cup side in 2015.
Ben Gardiner has also been re-appointed as another one of Maguire’s assistant coaches bringing a set of skills the Head Coach is looking forward to working with.
As the assistant coach of the New South Wales under-20s, Gardiner was credited with turning around the North Sydney Bears’ fortunes in the NSW Cup after taking the head coach role mid-way through the 2015 season. Gardiner also had a part to play in the South Sydney Rabbitohs’ 2014 Premiership win alongside Maguire.
Donny Singe also returns to the Kiwis staff as High Performance Manager alongside Sean Edwards who comes on board as Athlete Performance Coach. Both Singe and Edwards have played crucial roles in the high performance space when taking their respective clubs, Manly Sea Eagles and South Sydney Rabbitohs, to win NRL Premierships.
Defending champions, Counties Manukau Stingrays and the Akarana Falcons have once again marked their territory at day one of the National Women’s Tournament at Cornwall Park.
Standings after day one below:
https://www.facebook.com/NZLeague/photos/a.102005069859664.2797.100884206638417/1871408512919302/?type=3&theater
Saturday’s action sees Counties at the top of Pool A on four points after two big wins against the Wellington Orcas (28-0) and Wai-Coa-Bay (40-0) keeping both of their oppositions scoreless in round one.
In the first game of the day, Counties served Wellington a 28-0 beating drawing inspiration from a structurally sound attacking line that scored off their first set through their fullback, Apii Nicholls-Pualau. Their forwards managed to lay a great platform for the outside backs to convert chances into points. Two more first half tries gave the defending champions a 16-0 lead at the break.
Immediately after the break Counties were able to pile on the points with two tries off their first two sets, jumping out to a 28-0 lead.
Counties’ tight defense allowed Wellington only a handful of opportunities, but mistakes cost them on almost every occasion.
However, after getting their first game jitters out of the way, Auckland’s cold winter breeze made the Wellington Orcas feel right at home in what turned out to be the closest match of the day – Wellington Orcas v Auckland Vulcans.
To view the livestream, click here.
After an even opening period of the game, Wellington took advantage of their solid field position with a try to second-rower, Rikki Rawleigh. The Orcas left centre then took advantage of another scoring opportunity to extend their lead to 10-0.
Unfortunately for Auckland what seemed to be their best scoring chance quickly ended with what appeared to be a knee injury for their right centre, who had to be helped off the field.
After the break, a mistake from the Vulcans gifted the Orcas another chance and they capitalised, taking a commanding 14-0 lead.
Then came a shift in momentum. A surge in the final 20 minutes saw the Auckland Vulcans fight back to force a 14-all draw scoring three unanswered tries. That surge was ultimately sparked by former Kiwi Fern Lorina Papali’i and her sharp runs on attack that led to points on the board. The women’s rugby league veteran will be pleased with her performance as she returns to the field for the first time since retiring in 2010.
Wellington captain, Acacia Te Iwimate was named Mainstream Player of the Match after an outstanding game at hooker but admitted a lapse in defense cost them the win.
“We started off really well but against teams like the Vulcans, you can’t afford to go to sleep at any stage like we did. Of course, we’ve got to be happy with a draw, especially when it comes to an Auckland v Wellington battle.
“There were a couple of easy turnovers that we let slip at crucial times and they were able to counter-ruck off that and get the points so that will definitely be one of our work-ons going forward,” she said.
In Pool B, the Akarana Falcons lead with four points after beating Wai-Coa-Bay (24-0) and Canterbury (38-6) convincingly.
Akarana’s first try of the game came on the left wing for Lara Diamond-Brahne.
They then scored again off the ensuing set from kickoff, with a great slicing run from their second-rower, setting up a try for Tessa Wright.
Akarana began to pull away, with an overlap on the right side leading to a kick and chase. A great recovery from Luafalealo with a flick pass out the back to Diamond-Brahne extended their lead further with the winger running in her second try. Her impressive game saw her pick up the Mainstream Player of the Match.
Wayward passes and kicks, as well as several dropped balls didn’t work in Wai-Coa-Bay’s favour. Their strong defence helped set up numerous attacking opportunities, but all went begging as Akarana pulled on their great line speed to hold them scoreless.
A team that Akarana couldn’t keep scoreless was last year’s third place winners, Canterbury. A tight first half, one that Canterbury would be proud of, saw Akarana gain a narrow 8-6 lead.
The second half was a different story as the Falcons piled on the points. Their left side attack, which had been strong for most of the day produced a try produced another four points through left winger Tasha Tapu. Great running from the forwards in the middle opened the Canterbury defence up numerous times, and scoring chances flowed for Akarana. Final score being 38-6.
If Counties continue their winning streak, they could find themselves playing off for their ninth successive National Women’s Tournament title.
National Women’s Tournament – Day one
Saturday, 2 June 2018 – Cornwall Park
Round one:
Counties 28 – Wellington 0 Auckland Vulcans 16 – Canterbury 0 Akarana 24 – Wai-Coa 0
Round two:
Auckland Vulcans 14 – Wellington 14 Counties 40 – Wai-Coa 0 Akarana 38 – Canterbury 6
Photo Album from today’s games here
By Adam Pengilly – Sydney Morning Herald
Newly-appointed New Zealand coach Michael Maguire insisted his first Kiwi squad will be desperate to back up for their NRL clubs after the historic Denver Test match against England, which he stressed will put “pride back in the jersey”.
Just days after the Rugby League Players Association, NRL and its clubs signed a letter saying they wouldn’t be compelled to release players for the mid-season fixture if it returned in 2019 and 2020, Maguire is hellbent picking players who will travel “anywhere” to represent their country.
Stars such as the Dragons’ Englishmen Gareth Widdop and James Graham could be asked to back up for their club just 48 hours after returning to Australia from the US, which will be played on the same weekend as the standalone State of Origin clash in Sydney.
But former Rabbitohs premiership-winning coach Maguire is confident every precaution has been taken to ensure players are able to back up.
“The players are going to be completely looked after,” Maguire said. “They’re flying over in business class and we’ve got some real quality staff that are working on their peak performance. A lot of them have worked at NRL clubs and we understand the expectations and what it takes to look after the players for this current game, right down to sleep patterns to best adjust.
“A Kiwi player should be striving [to back up for their NRL club]. They got there because of club football and the players around them and it’s about the respect you give back. I know there’s various turnarounds, but players will want to play for their club no matter what the circumstance.”
Maguire, who has taken over the Kiwis job from David Kidwell, has promised to ring some changes to the squad which was dumped from the World Cup in the quarter-finals by giant killers Fiji.
He’s watched with delight the impact young forwards James Fisher-Harris and Corey Harawira-Naera have had at the table-topping Panthers, but has also told veteran halves Benji Marshall and Kieran Foran where they sit in the Kiwi pecking order.
“Every single player I’ve spoken to has really shown quite a bit of emotion about wanting to play for that jersey” -Michael Maguire
“I have spoken to both of them,” Maguire said. “They’re aware of where they’re at and in the next week or so I’ll be selecting a team with the thought pattern of putting pride back in the jersey. Every single player I’ve spoken to has really shown quite a bit of emotion about wanting to play for that jersey.
“It goes to show international footy is really alive. We’ve got to realise it’s a Test match and kids grow up wanting to play in Test matches. People have mixed opinions about this game and where it’s being played, but it’s going ahead. I’m looking for players that want to put their hand up and say, ‘I want to play for New Zealand wherever it might be’.
“I have been [impressed with Marshall]. I think he’s shown a maturity around his game, he’s very experienced and he’s shown this year how to control a game and he’s added a lot to the Wests Tigers. He’s playing the game in a different space to where he’s been before. He’s exciting with his attack, but he also has a balance with when to do that as well.”
Maguire got the nod to resume his coaching career with New Zealand, topping a shortlist which included Des Hasler and Laurie Daley.
The New Zealand Rugby League is pleased to announce today, Kelvin Wright as the new Head Coach of the Kiwi Ferns ahead of the Queen’s Birthday weekend National Women’s Tournament taking place 2-4 June.
Since his coaching career began in 2011, Wright has fulfilled several coaching roles at New Zealand level including as Junior Kiwis Head Coach, Junior Warriors Head Coach, Warriors Assistant Coach and Kiwis Assistant Coach, roles which will prove beneficial when he begins his journey with the national women’s rugby league team.
Wright will lead the selection panel identifying the top 30 female players in New Zealand during this weekend’s National Women’s Tournament. These players will contribute to the make-up of the Kiwi Ferns wider squad to be announced on Monday 4 June at the conclusion of the final where the national women’s champion team will be crowned.
NZRL Coaching Manager, Gary Peacham said he was “excited to see a coach of Kelvin’s ability put his hand up for the top job and is confident he can successfully lead the Kiwi Ferns programme.”
While Kelvin boasts a wealth of rugby league experience, he was particularly excited to accept this new challenge – to coach the three time World Champion Kiwi Ferns team. With the supreme level of talent available in New Zealand, Wright is welcoming of the new era women’s rugby league is about to enter into, and believes he can offer significant value to the team.
“I’ll bring fresh ideas and experience which I’ve gained through a number of different campaigns. On a technical level, I’ll be challenging the players to improve in all areas to take our game to the next level. We are very lucky to have a tremendous amount of Kiwi talent across New Zealand and Australia who will be competing for spots in the squad,” Wright said.
As a part of the trans-Tasman triple-header taking place in Auckland on October 13, the Kiwi Ferns will go head-to-head with the Jillaroos ahead of the Kiwis v Kangaroos clash, in their first match since the 2017 Rugby League World Cup final in Brisbane.
For Kelvin, the road to the October match-up starts this weekend when six teams including last year’s champions, the Counties Manukau Stingrays, Akarana Falcons, Wai-Coa-Bay Stallions, Canterbury, Wellington Orcas and the Auckland Vulcans teams descend upon Cornwall Park.
“I’m sure we’ll see quality games played at a tremendous pace. I’ll be looking for speed, skill and players who compete on every play with a strong desire to win,” Wright said.
Following the tournament, Wright will support the NZRL in appointing the remainder of the Kiwi Ferns management team.
The New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) is set for a boost with new internationally respected Chief Executive Officer, Greg Peters at the helm of the organisation.
Announced at a press conference today, Peters’ appointment marks another positive change for the organisation that is determined to press forward.
Peters’ experience as a successful sports administrator spans 20 years and includes five years as the Sydney-based CEO of SANZAR; two years with the Argentinean Rugby Union in the General Manager role; four years as CEO of the Hurricanes and Wellington Rugby; and eight years working for the New Zealand Rugby Union in various roles involving the grassroots and professional game.
Originally hailing from Canterbury but also spending a number of years in the Waikato and Wellington, Peters returned to Wellington from Argentina in 2016. As part of his new role Peters will relocate to Auckland, joining the NZRL in mid-June following the Board’s 2018 Annual meeting on 18 June.
The Castle review conducted at the conclusion of the Kiwis’ 2017 Rugby League World Cup campaign identified “a need for knowledge, expertise, understanding, leadership and capability at the high performance sport level and at the CEO position.” Based on these recommendations, the NZRL Board brought in Global Elite Sports to assist with recruitment.
Confident that Peters’ is the right person for the job, the New Zealand Rugby League Chairman, Reon Edwards says his appointment brings about some exciting prospects for the organisation.
“When it comes to leading high performance organisations to the top, Peters has the resume and experience to prove he is the one to lead the New Zealand Rugby League into a new era,” said NZRL Chair Reon Edwards.
“Our game requires a strong, resilient leader who understands the nuances of grassroots sports and the connection with our community, while having the leadership qualities and commercial skills to grow the NZRL brand. Greg’s C.V. speaks for itself. He is a proven CEO with plenty of experience at provincial and international level. He’s now excited about the prospect of applying his vast experience to a game he follows as a fan and has huge respect for.
“With the recent appointment of Michael Maguire as Kiwis Head Coach, and now Greg Peters set to lead the organisation, I believe we have leaders with the capability to implement the necessary systems and processes that will drive NZRL into the future.
“Our rugby league community expect that we represent the NZRL values of integrity, respect, leadership, courage and passion to the highest standard, and Greg does so in the most humble fashion,” Edwards said.
As an avid supporter of sport and its societal impact, Peters understands that the success of a high performing sport organisation is the result of several different factors.
“High performance sport is not just about what happens on the field – it’s the whole organisation from grassroots to the elite.
“While my experience has predominantly been in rugby union, the fundamentals of leading a sports organisation to succeed are transferrable and my focus now is getting the NZRL to reach new heights.
“I know New Zealanders are passionate about their rugby league and if we re-establish trust in the NZRL brand, we can re-position rugby league in the hearts and minds of the wider community.
“Rugby league has the power to galvanise, unite and inspire communities in a way that few other sports can,” Peters said.
Bio – Greg Peters
NZRL will keep you updated with results and ladders throughout the National Women’s Tournament on this weekend (2-4 June) at Cornwall Park.
Players will put their best foot forward in hopes of earning a spot in Kiwi Ferns wider squad of 30 which will be named at the conclusion of the tournament on Monday 4 June.
Teams this year include the Counties Manukau Stingrays, Wellington Orcas, Auckland Vulcans in Pool A and Canterbury, Akarana Falcons and Wai-Coa-Bay Stallions in Pool B.
Download the NZRL app on your iphone or android through the app store, and you’ll receive live notifications as the results come in. You can refer to LeagueNet (click here for link) for live scoring and results as they happen too.
There will also be daily wrap-up graphics on the NZRL Facebook page and the NZRL website. These wrap-ups will be accompanied by interviews with players so you don’t miss out on the action.
Thanks to passionate supporters of the women’s game, Mainstream for sponsoring $250 vouchers for the recipient of the ‘Player of the Round’ awards that will be given out after each round.
One game per day will be livestreamed on the NZRL Facebook page. These will include:
Day one 2 June, 2.30pm – Auckland Vulcans v Wellington Orcas
Day two 3 June, 1.30pm – 1st Pool A v 2nd Pool B (Semi Final 1)
Day three 4 June, 1pm – Grand Final
Will the Counties Manukau Stingrays take out their ninth successive National Women’s Tournament title or will there be another team that takes the crown this year?
The New Zealand Rugby League community is saddened to learn of the passing of former NZRL chairman Gerald Ryan, aged 87.
One of the most colourful officials to have served the game in this country, Gerald’s 1997-2001 tenure as chairman – which encompassed a challenging and tumultuous period in rugby league’s history – was rarely anything less than entertaining.
Prior to becoming NZRL chairman, Gerald had terms as chairman of Auckland Rugby League and the Auckland Warriors, vice-president of NZRL and patron of NZ Universities Rugby League. When Gerald took over as NZRL chairman, former Prime Minister David Lange was his deputy.
Gerald Ryan and twin Kevin were born in Westport in 1931. Theirs was to be a difficult childhood because their mother Gladys died only two years later. Father Timothy was left to raise a family of nine, eight of them boys. They moved to Hamilton and Gerald and Kevin went on to study law and flourish in the legal profession (Kevin eventually became a Queen’s Counsel before passing away in 2008).
While Kevin Ryan famously wrote in his autobiography that for all his legal career he had fought for “the rights of the innocent, the not so innocent and the downright guilty”, Gerald was to fight New Zealand’s corner for equality against powerful Australian and, to a lesser extent, British administrators in the court of international rugby league.
On one occasion, as NZRL chairman, he was told his Australian counterpart, Colin Love, would not accept a New Zealand referee to control the Kangaroos and Lions despite neutral officials then being the rule. While the British only mumbled their displeasure Gerald thundered his defence of New Zealand referees from the rooftops.
Gerald was never a great fan of Australian whistle-blowers, whom he believed were doing very little to show impartiality to the Warriors in the late 1990s. “There are orangutans and blind grandmothers from the South Island who could do better than some Australian referees,” said Gerald to any members of the media prepared to listen.
When New Zealand Maori were lobbying the International Board for acceptance into the 2000 World Cup they desperately needed NZRL backing. Although it had been another committee which initially supported them, Gerald knew he was committed: “A promise was given to them and as far as I’m concerned a promise is a promise”.
In 1996 Gerald donated the Billy Kelly Memorial Trophy for what became the Anzac Tests, in recognition of the outstanding player who went from Buller to represent both New Zealand and Australia before being wounded in the First World War and was later a renowned coach in Sydney. Gerald was Billy Kelly’s nephew.
Gerald’s NZRL chairmanship covered the tempestuous Super League war which first ignited across the Tasman, the introduction of the national Bartercard Cup and provincial second division competitions, and the national body’s brief ownership of the Warriors prior to the pivotal sale of the club to Eric Watson.
Gerald’s contribution in many spheres was officially recognised in 2011 when he was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) “for services to racing, rugby league and the community”.
New Zealand Rugby League are committed to creating more positive experiences on and off the field for our players, match officials and supporters. ‘Be a sport’ (BAS) in conjunction with the Aktive Good Sports programme, is designed specifically to encourage positive supporter behaviour and provide more enjoyable rugby league experiences for our community.
Last Wednesday (23 May), NZRL held the first Good Sports workshop at Mount Albert Rugby League Club.
The Mt Albert Rugby League club, like other codes and clubs around NZ, are facing declining membership numbers and were keen to ask the hard questions, why and what can we do about it?
All team coaches and managers were invited, with a representative from every team in the club attending.
The workshop was facilitated by Kirsty Sharp (NZRL Legacy Manager) & Gary Peacham (National Coaching Manager) who have worked with the Good Sports (an Aktive pilot) team over the past 12 months to develop a rugby league specific presentation on the role of adults in children sport.
The main messages:
NZRL have also created a video called “Remember WHY”, which profiles well known rugby league personalities who speak about their own childhood experiences, what they loved about playing sport as a youngster, along with some messages for parents supporting their children.
Ani Cherrington, Mt Albert’s president:
“The Good Sports Seminar is the best thing we have done for our club in a long time. It gave us the opportunity and space to think about what we do and how we do it. The conversations and self-evaluation have continued long after the seminar finished.”
Feedback
“ Haven’t been to a seminar before so have learnt that kids just need to enjoy football without the pressure and expectation of winning etc..”
“ Adults/parents have a big influence on kids with their behaviour”
“We have the ability to control a child’s experience /enjoyment of sport as well as contribute to their personal development”
For more information https://nzrl.co.nz/community/be-a-sport-just-support/ or http://aktive.org.nz/good-sports/.
If your club is interested in booking a Good Sports workshop contact Kirsty.sharp@nzrl.co.nz
The Auckland University of Technology and Drugfree Sport New Zealand are capturing the thoughts of 13-18-year-old athletes on supplement use and doping in sport throughout NZ.
The findings will be used to make sport better for everyone by developing a programme which prevents doping in sport for the next generation of NZ athletes.
The questionnaire is closing soon and it is really important that we hear the thoughts of as many NZ athletes as possible – to make sure yours are included, follow this link to complete a short questionnaire on any device:
Click here to complete questionaire
Want to watch the Kiwis take on England at Mile High Stadium in Denver?
Orbit can help you out with a travel package to make sure you don’t miss out.
To find out more contact:
Orbit Consultant: Nicola Cribb Phone: 09 355 7583 Email: NZRL@orbit.co.nz
National Women’s Tournament – three weeks out
The National Women’s Tournament is three weeks away and NZRL are pleased to advise there will be one game livestreamed each day of the tournament.
Livestreamed games will include:
Day one 2 June, 2.30pm – Auckland Vulcans v Wellington Orcas Day two 3 June, 1.30pm – 1st Pool A v 2nd Pool B Day three 4 June, 1pm – Grand Final
https://www.facebook.com/NZLeague/photos/gm.420355105104030/1852767364783417/?type=3&theater
By Carey Clements
After a three year hiatus since it last played an international match, the New Zealand Universities and Tertiary Students rugby league side traveled to England over the weekend ahead of their two Test tour.
Last year due to being unable to meet the high fee cost imposed by hosts Australia, the NZUTSRL was forced to miss its first ever Student World Cup.
NZUTSRL Chairman John Fiso said as a result, the tour to England will be about regaining credibility as well as ensuring his side will have a high quality experience for those players that choose to play rugby league at university and tertiary level.
“It will give players an appetite of playing the game at a higher level and also an understanding of how the English play as well as what some of the grounds are like, which will be useful, before we travel over there in 2021 to the next Student World Cup.
Fiso also said the tour is about pathways for players, who may attract the attention of local scouts.
“It is a critical tour considering that nine months ago we were not going anywhere, but due to some magnificent hard work by my Board, we have turned things around in just six months.”
Of the 19 players that are going on the tour, just four in captain Jason Whareatu, vice captain Isaac Robinson along with Solomona Sio and Kane Telea, have played for the NZUTSRL.
As a result, the team will have 15 new players to take the total number of players that have played for the body to 457, since official representative games began exactly 50 years ago this year.
The side will have a real family feel to it as it features brothers Mitchell and Rory Ropati along with their cousin George Ropati. In doing so it will be the 19th pair of brothers to play for the NZUTSRL, while as both cousins had fathers that also played for the NZUTSRL (John Ropati as the father of Mitchell and Rory) and Tea Ropati as the father of George, it will be the sixth and seventh father and son(s) combinations along with the sixth time that cousins have also played for the NZUTSRL.
Coach Kenny O’Brien said England are not taking any chances by naming an initial 25-player squad as it will be using the Tests as a measure before it plays in a Student Four Nations tournament.
“Although we are unknown to England, the same could be said about our knowledge of them, except to say that they are bound to be tough as was witnessed when they beat us in an extra time thriller at the 2013 Student World Cup in England.” “This tour will be about building relationships as well as our brand as we think we have something to offer rugby league in New Zealand,” O’Brien said. The only game prior to the Tests will be against Leeds Beckett University next Wednesday. At last year’s Student World Cup, Leeds provided 14 players to the England Students side. The Tests will be played on consecutive Saturdays in Featherston and Newcastle respectively and both will be played as curtain-raisers to Super League games.
The NZUTSRL touring side is: Jason Whareaitu (captain, Bay of Plenty), Isaac Robinson (vice captain, Waikato), Ricki Allan (Otago), Jake Cusack (Auckland), Matt Filipo (Bay of Plenty), Mike Hollis (Wellington), Jong Hoon Lee (Otago), Josh McKenzie (Otago), Brooklan Niwa (Otago), George Ropati (Auckland), Mitchell Ropati (Auckland), Rory Ropati (Auckland), Solomona Sio (Wellington), Jeremy Siulepa (Bay of Plenty), Jordan Stuart (Otago), Destry Tamai (Bay of Plenty), Kane Telea (Auckland), Ben Tunnicliff (Otago), Cameron Walters (Bay of Plenty); Coach: Kenny O’Brien (Wellington), Assistant Coach: Ray Fitiao (Otago), Manager: David Marsh (Auckland), Trainer: Tea Ropati (Auckland).
The New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) can now confirm that Michael Maguire has been appointed to lead the Kiwis as Head Coach going forward.
In addition to this, the NZRL is also proud to announce that major sponsor Pirtek have extended their sponsorship of the Kiwis for the next four years including the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.
General Manager of Pirtek New Zealand, Chris Bourke was pleased to build on their decade long partnership with New Zealand Rugby League and said he “couldn’t wait to see what Michael Maguire has in store for the Kiwis.”
After a stringent application process conducted by the high-powered coach selection panel and chaired by Kiwi great Dean Bell, the NZRL Board finalised the appointment of Maguire earlier this week based on the panel’s recommendations. Bell was joined by Frank Endacott, Monty Betham and Waimarama Taumaunu who are confident that Maguire is the best person for the job.
“It was great to see Michael Maguire put his hand up for the role. The high calibre of applicants we had shows that top coaches can see the Kiwis’ potential and the prestige that comes with international rugby league,” Bell said.
When asked what the drawcard was, Maguire was full of excitement at the prospect of helping to foster a winning culture within the Kiwis camp.
“New Zealand already supplies a lot of the top talent in the National Rugby League (NRL) and English Super League (ESL) and they’ve got the biggest nursery as well as the most vocal, passionate and knowledgeable fans.
“Pride in that jersey isn’t just for players, it’s for the whole of New Zealand. That’s the task facing us all at the refreshed NZRL. I’m really excited to join Reon and the team to help build a winning culture that brings New Zealand back to the top of the rugby league world.
“2017 may not have gone in favour of the Kiwis but the beauty of that, is the opportunity to reflect and reset. My full focus now is on the Kiwis and what we can do to build processes that manifest success which is centred around the respect for the black and white jersey,” Maguire said.
His attention to detail and expertise in the high performance space caught the eyes of the Coach Selection panel, Dean Bell said.
“The panel were very impressed with the thought and detail that went into his presentation. He demonstrated thorough plans on how he would prepare for the Test matches this year and what needed to be done in preparation for the World Cup in 2021.
“His obvious football knowledge was complemented by his passion for the game and the fact that he had quickly created premiership winning sides in both hemispheres also impressed the panel.
“He also displayed a sincere belief that he can consistently get our Kiwi players playing to their potential through his high performance coaching knowledge and instilling a genuine pride in pulling on the black jersey,” Bell added.
A key recommendation of the post 2017 World Cup review was that there should be more transparency and rigour around various appointments and NZRL Acting CEO, Hugh Martyn believes the panel’s input was integral to following through on this.
“Based on the Castle review’s recommendation, the Kiwis Head Coach eligibility criteria was updated to include overseas applicants.
“This means that wherever they come from, we are able to ensure the best person for the position is appointed and in this case, with an NRL Premiership and Super League title under his belt, Maguire was the right fit.
“NZRL is in a great position now compared to where it was a few months ago so it’s important that we maintain this forward momentum and continue to make improvements,” he said.
In the coming weeks, Maguire will work with the Player Selection Panel which includes Tawera Nikau, Hugh McGahan and Mark Horo, to work through selection criteria.
BIO
– Head Coach of the South Sydney Rabbitohs from 2012 to 2017 winning the NRL Premiership in 2014 – Head Coach of the Wigan Warriors from 2010-2011 winning the 2010 Super League Grand Final and 2011 Challenge Cup – Played for the Canberra Raiders from 1992 to 1996 and again in 1998 after a stint with the Adelaide Rams
NOTES:
– Pirtek is a trusted Hydraulic & Industrial hose specialist with a large footprint across New Zealand backed up by over 45 mobile service units to support customers’ maintenance & breakdown needs when and where they need it – As a long-time supporter and in addition to being the main sponsor of the Kiwis, Pirtek has assisted the NZRL at a local level through their centres to recognise key people and volunteers within the rugby league community – For more information on Pirtek’s partnership with NZRL, click here
The NZRL National Women’s Tournament is four weeks away. Queen’s Birthday weekend, 2-4 June will see women’s teams from throughout New Zealand battle it out in hopes of being crowned the NZRL Women’s National champions.
Get down to Cornwall Park on Queen’s Birthday weekend to support the women’s game.
https://www.facebook.com/NZLeague/photos/a.102005069859664.2797.100884206638417/1845472498846237/?type=3&theater
From Tasman Rugby League
On a cloudy day on Saturday Wairau Taniwha hosted the Victory Phoenix at Oliver park in Blenheim. Will the Taniwha be able to reverse their 36-12 defeat on opening day back in April, the difference being this time they have home ground advantage.
For the first half the Taniwha were playing with the advantage of a noticeable tail wind. Hoani Tauwhare opened the scoring for Victory with a sweeping move down the right side attack following a Taniwha dropped ball from a 20m restart. Tana Pounui scored a try for the Taniwha with Dalton Mckinney kicking the first of his three goals. The Taniwha lead 6-4.
The teams again traded tries in what was to be the pattern for the rest of the game. Fabyan Noonan scoring for Victory and Isiah Mischeski scoring for the Taniwha to make the score 10-all. Ray Roebeck scored for the Taniwha to give them a 6 point lead at half time of 16-10.
Michael Bates scored from close range to give the Taniwha a 12 point lead early in the second half. Julian Kereopa scored for Victory to narrow the margin down to six points. The lead for the Taniwha was restored to 12 points when their second rower Ryan Craig went on a 60 metre solo run to score by the posts.
Victory levelled the game with tries firstly to Tainui Parata and secondly to Laman Fa’auli who ran 20 metres through the Taniwha defence straight from a penalty tap with about seven minutes to go. With the scores tied up the hunt began for the elusive drop goal to take the lead. Victory had one unsuccessful attempt. With time almost up on the clock Victory were penalised for obstruction. From the ensuing set of six Taniwha worked their way to the Victory tryline where they too were penalised for obstruction.
So in the end, time beat both teams and the game finished up at 28-all. Julian Kereopa was player of the day for Victory and Tanie Turnball was player of the day for the Taniwha. What a great game.
Thanks to all the volunteers who make the game possible namely the match manager and officials and the people who set up the field and pack it down after the game.
Next week’s game sees Motueka Tigers host Victory Phoenix at Cooks Reserve in Riwaka. Kick off 2.30pm. Hope to see you all there.
By NZ Herald
Sporting royalty were included in a cohort of new police constables who graduated in Porirua over the weekend.
Kiwi Ferns Captain Laura Mariu and Kiwi Ferns player and winner of New Zealand Rugby League 2017 Player of the Year, Apii Nicholls-Pualau have both graduated from the black jersey to the blue uniform, along with 56 other constables from Wing 313 and two narcotic detector dogs.
“It is a huge honour to be a part of New Zealand Police and I have enjoyed my time here at College,” Nicholls-Pualau said.
“I believe the [Royal New Zealand Police College] definitely sets the platform for a better future and I can only hope my experiences will help me better engage with our community and set good examples.
“I can’t wait to make a difference and ultimately contribute to the ongoing success of making New Zealand the safest country.”
Mariu and Nicholls-Pualau will both be posted to Counties Manukau district and start on the beat on May 14.
Tomorrow’s graduation is also a milestone for the role the police has played in helping to build dog section capability in the Northern Territories and the Pacific, said national co-ordinator of police dogs Inspector Todd Southall.
“We have a key role in helping maintain training and development, as well as the supply of dogs to the island nations,” he said.
“It’s about helping protect our neighbours and protecting our borders.”
Senior Constable Dean McKie from the Northern Territory Police is graduating with detector dog Hugo, who was bred at the Dog Training Centre.
He will be attached to the Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk.
Sergeant Tyron Bellman from the Northern Territory Police is currently an operational handler and is the detection training sergeant for the entire Northern Territory Police.
Tomorrow he graduates as a detector dog instructor.
Constable Peter Pureau from the Cook Islands Police is graduating with detector dog Hoss, Hugo’s brother.
The Secretary of Defence and Chief Executive of the Ministry of Defence, Helene Quilter, Minister of Police Stuart Nash, MP for Mana Kris Faafoi and Deputy Commissioner Mike Clement will all be attending the graduation.
On 29 April 2018 the Patea Warriors from South Taranaki traveled north to play the Waitara Bears in a game of Masters Rugby League, and what a game it was with some great tries, outstanding tackles and some good old fashion straight up the guts running.
The game was played with such passion and physicality, but what else would you expect from these two great teams and clubs. There was a great mixture of aged players, with the oldest being in his mid sixties, but for those who were there, age was definitely no barrier.
Although Patea took the win the game of rugby league was the winner on the day. To see our past players on both sides giving their all and enjoying themselves was an awesome sight to see.
Acknowledgement definitely goes out to all the players and supporters of both teams who traveled near and far to be a part of this tremendous occasion, to the Patea Warriors Club for making the journey north and to the Waitara Bears Club who were fantastic hosts on the day.
Masters Rugby League is alive and kicking in Taranaki, and we now look forward to next date that is set with the Western Suburbs Tigers hosting on Sunday 27th May at Ngamotu Domain in New Plymouth.
The ANZAC bonds between New Zealand and Australian soldiers based at Iraq’s Camp Taji remain as strong as ever except perhaps on the rugby league pitch.
In a charity league match held on a sweltering ANZAC Day, New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel beat their Australian counterparts 32-20.
“Both teams played with passion, despite the heat and the hard surface they had to play on. It was all good fun and for a good cause, and the camaraderie was great,” Task Group Taji’s Regimental Sergeant Major said.
The NZDF and Australian Defence Force teams wore national team jerseys donated by the New Zealand Rugby League and the National Rugby League, respectively.
The charity league match raised US$2,373 (about NZ$3,350) for the New Zealand Fallen Heroes Trust, an organisation that provides support for the families of military personnel killed or injured on operations overseas, and US$2,638(about NZ$3,720) for Legacy Australia, an Australian charity supporting families of service personnel.
About 100 New Zealand and 300 Australian troops comprise Task Group Taji, the combined New Zealand-Australian training mission which has trained around 34,000 Iraqi Security Forces personnel since May 2015.
There’ll be Kiwis players galore when the Tigers come to town to take on the Warriors this Saturday night (7.30pm) in Auckland.
While there’ll be Kiwi touches around Mt Smart stadium the most visible demonstration will be on the field.
In the first eight rounds, the Vodafone Warriors fielded 16 New Zealanders and the Tigers won’t be lacking in Kiwi talent either. Tigers co-captains Russell Packer, Elijah Taylor and former Kiwis captain Benji Marshall are just a few of the Kiwi players coming to New Zealand for round nine of the NRL.
Watch out for the Kiwis players who could be in contention for a spot in the squad that takes on England in Denver later next month.
https://www.facebook.com/vodafonewarriors/photos/a.365456916832041.87797.122894684421600/1914892311888486/?type=3&theater
The NZRL National Women’s Tournament is back in 2018. Queen’s Birthday weekend, 2-4 June will see women’s teams from throughout New Zealand battle out in hopes of being crowned the NZRL Women’s National champions.
Last year, the Counties Manukau Stingrays took out their eighth successive title in a nail biter against Akarana and it was standout fullback, Apii Nicholls-Pualau who was awarded Best Back of the Tournament earning her a spot in the Kiwi Ferns 2017 Rugby League World Cup squad. After outstanding performances on the world stage, she unsurprisingly went on to take out 2017 NZRL Women’s PLayer of the Year.
Five weeks out from this year’s National Women’s Tournament, we look forward to seeing all the talent on display that 2018 has to offer.
https://www.facebook.com/NZLeague/photos/a.102005069859664.2797.100884206638417/1836895146370639/?type=3
New Zealand Rugby League introduced the ‘Be A Sport’ programme to encourage positive supporter behaviour and provide more enjoyable rugby league experiences for our community – from players, referees, coaches and officials to fans and spectators.
Adapted from an Auckland Rugby League programme, Be A Sport was launched in all seven NZRL zones’ junior programmes in 2017 and expanded into further grades this year.
Be A Sport’s ethos has quickly become a cornerstone of Canterbury Rugby League’s campaign to eradicate antisocial behaviour from the game, attract new people to rugby league and make people want to stay in the sport.
“From our perspective, Be A Sport helps change the culture and environment for our visitors to the park and the players on the field,” CRL Club Capability Manager George Lajpold says.
“It’s also designed to help recognise that the people we have officiating games are volunteers.”
Recruiting and retaining referees is one of the greatest problems facing grassroots sport – and rugby league is no exception.
The biggest obstacle to new refs picking up the whistle and current refs remaining in the ranks is abuse from the sidelines. One of Be A Sport’s foundational principles is that this behaviour is unacceptable.
“One of our real concerns – and that of the sport in general – is that people see a game of NRL and expect the same level of officiating at club level right down to the six-year-old grade,” Lajpold explains.
“Part of the Be A Sport campaign is to say that these are young people still learning the sport, it’s an environment that should be full of positive experiences, and recognising that young people are there to have fun.”
Lajpold says that creating a safer and more welcoming environment for referees is critical to the code’s crusade to bolster numbers, and to the health of rugby league in general. Without refs, you don’t have a game.
“At the moment rugby league, as well as a number of other sports, are going through a process of trying to lift the profile of refereeing and let everyone know that they’re there to support our sport.
“They aren’t there to have a huge influence, but they want to create a quality experience for our players and they are an integral part of our game.
“We want everyone on the sideline to have a clear understanding of what the referees are trying to do on the field – which is to create a better experience for players and supporters.”
Canterbury Rugby League is working alongside clubs to curb behaviour detrimental to creating a positive and safe environment for players, officials and fellow supporters.
Each club appoints two ‘Team Champions’, who are identifiable by Hi-Vis vests marked with the ‘Be A Sport – Just Support’ message. Where behaviour is not appropriate, Team Champions are to follow the steps as described on the BAS guide sheet.
“One of the key things about Be A Sport is that antisocial sideline behaviour should normally be dealt with by the club where that person is from,” Lajpold says.
“It’s not a confrontational thing – it’s an opportunity for a club member to stand alongside the spectator, ask what’s happening for them around the game and remind them of what constitutes appropriate sideline behaviour.
“And it’s a positive thing to see clubs take more responsibility for their own supporters’ sideline behaviour. It’s a collective responsibility – it’s not just CRL’s responsibility or a club’s responsibility on their own.”
Lajpold says the response from the clubs to the Be A Sport programme’s initiatives has been overwhelmingly positive.
“It’s been pretty cool. From a juniors perspective every club has taken it on board.
“When you see the Hi-Vis vests down at Canterbury Park on a Saturday or at a seniors game on a Saturday, those are the Be A Sport Team Champions – they’re the ones that are there to help create a positive environment and manage any inappropriate behaviour.
“It’s been well-received, and Canterbury Rugby League is quite open to going into clubs and having conversations with parents and club members and people in the community around what their sport is, the principles that go with it and what we’re trying to achieve in this space.”
Another key component of the Be A Sport programme is creating an alcohol-free and smoke-free environment on the sideline at games.
“In the past rugby league has perhaps been seen as a sport where that’s a regular thing, drinking alcohol on the sideline, which often leads to antisocial behaviour,” Lajpold says.
“What we’re saying from rugby league’s perspective is that actually we need to start changing our culture so people want to start coming to our games and have a positive experience while they’re there.”
While supporters responsible for antisocial behaviour at rugby league games are very much in the minority, it only takes one negative incident to ruin a day out at the footy for many.
The Be A Sport programme is one of the most effective tools at Canterbury Rugby League’s disposal to decrease those negative instances by promoting positivity, inclusivity and respectfulness.
“The main thing to understand is that everyone that’s involved in rugby league, coaches, managers, the person with the whistle in the middle of the field, are volunteers and they’re also developing in the game and learning,” Lajpold enthuses.
“We have a 31 percent turnover rate of people leaving our sport every year, and part of that is because of the experience they receive when they’re at the game on the sideline.
“The Be A Sport initiative is part and parcel of us saying that as a group we need to look at the culture that’s been there in the past, changing the negative aspects of that and creating a more positive one.”
NZRL are now open to receiving applications of interest for the roles of Head Coach for the New Zealand Resident 16s and the Kiwi Ferns.
Applications close for the NZ RESIDENT 16S HEAD COACH role at 5pm on Thursday 3 May 2018.
To view job description, click here.
Successful shortlisted applicants must be available to interview on Thursday 10 May 2018
Applications close for the KIWI FERNS HEAD COACH role at 5pm on Thursday 10 May 2018.
To view Job description, click here.
Successful shortlisted applicants must be available to interview on Thursday 17 May 2018
If you are interested in the roles please send your covering letter and coaching CV to: admin@nzrl.co.nz before the allocated time and date.
If you have any questions of queries please contact Gary Peacham: 021 274 6975 or email: gary.p@nzrl.co.nz
ANZAC Day Commemoration
Ahead of ANZAC day on Wednesday, we flashback to the second ever ANZAC Test in 1998 where the New Zealand Kiwis beat the Australian Kangaroos – 22-16.
The Southern Zone Development Camp which is a key component of the Southern Zone Development plan and pathways, was held for 2018 at St Thomas College in Christchurch. This camp saw 75 talented 14, 16 and 18-year-old players from throughout the South Island receiving expert tuition, information and advice across a range of topics that will help them to achieve their potential.
The programme was delivered by key personnel from the Zone supported by the NZRL with David McMeeken, the National Talent Manager and Nigel Vagana, the NZRL WellBeing Manager in attendance. The programme covered the areas of skill development, tactical appreciation, performance analysis, positional roles, nutrition, goal setting and smart training principles. Players were also fitness tested to assess their current level of fitness.
The camp culminated in a game where the players were able to put into practice some of what they had learnt. At the end of the camp they were issued with a comprehensive training diary which contained all the information presented to them.
Whilst the aim was to provide development for the players attending, a secondary and just as important outcome will be those in attendance taking what they have learned back to their club teams to share with their teammates and coaches.
The next focus of the Southern Zone Development programme will be the South Island 15s and 17s Tournament to be held in July in Greymouth. South Island 15s and 17s Scorpions squads will be picked from this tournament to prepare for the National Youth Tournament in October in Rotorua.
Southern Zone is grateful for the many coaches, trainers, a managers and presenters for giving their time to make this camp possible. There is no doubt that the boys who attended will have all learnt a lot.
NZRL renew agreement with ACC for LeagueSmart
New Zealand Rugby League is pleased to announce the renewal of their agreement with ACC to continue driving the LeagueSmart programme.
The contract was signed for a further three years with the focus of upskilling players and volunteers to stay in the game.
The NZRL LeagueSmart programme has been developed to give players, coaches and referees training to increase their performance and get the most out of their game. LeagueSmart covers key areas including warm up and conditioning, game day technique and injury management.
The partnership between ACC LeagueSmart and NZRL over the next three years will see the compulsory LeagueSmart registration for rugby league volunteers.
This will help NZRL to ensure that all volunteers have access to these resources and that players have the best possible preparation to play the great game of rugby league.
The Denver showdown between the Kiwis and England on 23 June is on track following a successful trip by New Zealand officials to Australia this week.
The Kiwis team management and New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) Chairman Reon Edwards returned to New Zealand following a constructive meeting on Tuesday with the 16 NRL clubs, the Rugby League Players’ Association (RLPA), English Rugby League (RFL) and NRL Executives.
In relation to the medical and player management issues, representatives from the RLPA confirmed they had been provided with a level of comfort regarding their specific concerns in that area.
NZRL Chair Reon Edwards said, “It was really positive to receive those comments. Of course NZRL is committed to following through on its commitment to deliver on the player management plan and maintain ongoing communication with clubs.”
Kiwis Team Doctor Greg MacLeod and High Performance Coach Donny Singe presented a comprehensive report around the player welfare and workload management that would be implemented in the lead-up to, and during the tour. It was also agreed that further assistance would be available to clubs following the players’ return from Denver.
NZRL will keep in regular communication with the NRL, NRL clubs and RLPA over the coming months to allay any other concerns with regard to the Test in Denver.
Doctor MacLeod says, “Our priority is to ensure we mitigate those risks associated with travelling long distances, a short turnaround and player workload. We have an extremely competent medical team and high performance staff and we’re fully committed to making this tour a success.”
The meeting was also attended by Rugby League International Federation Chairman John Grant who threw his support behind the June Test match, outlining the long-term benefits for the International game. The 2025 Rugby League World Cup will also be staged in the U.S in partnership with the same promoter as the Denver Test, Moore Sports International.
Edwards added, “By taking this RLIF sanctioned Test match to Denver we are breaking new ground for International Rugby League. I am the first to admit, the communication and information sharing with clubs could further improve, however all clubs have now been educated around NZRL’s commitment to mitigate the risks associated with the Denver travel demands. We’re looking forward to taking our Kiwi players to a new and exciting destination and giving the Americans a taste of International Rugby League.”
Kiwi legends Olsen Filipaina (Kiwi #529), Ali Lauitiiti (Kiwi #677) and Henry Fa’afili (Kiwi #687) are also right behind the new fixture seeing the exciting prospects for the game of rugby league in New Zealand.
“I fully support the Kiwis playing in Denver – how else is our game of rugby league going to expand if we don’t showcase it to other countries? Let’s give them a taste of Kiwi,” Filipaina said.
Lauitiiti added, “Personally, I think it’s a great initiative and it’s worked for other sports so I’m keen to see rugby league do the same thing. It’s our great game so I can’t wait for the rest of the world to be blessed with it.”
Former Kiwi legends are rallying together in support of the mid-year clash between the New Zealand Kiwis and England scheduled to go ahead in Denver.
Stomping ground of the Denver Broncos, Mile High Stadium will host the international match on 23 June where Americans will get a taste of world-class rugby league for the first time.
While the Test in Denver is set to challenge the status quo of where international rugby league is played, former Kiwi legends Olsen Filipaina, Ali Lauitiiti and Henry Fa’afili are right behind the new fixture.
Kiwi #529 Olsen Filipaina and Kiwi #677 Ali Lauitiiti played 28 and 19 Tests respectively for the Kiwis and both say taking the game to Denver is an important step for rugby league to move forward.
“I fully support the Kiwis playing in Denver – how else is our game of rugby league going to expand if we don’t showcase it to other countries? Let’s give them a taste of Kiwi,” Filipaina says.
Exploring all international and commercial opportunities for the Kiwis becomes an essential part of growing the game. Expanding into the North American market would, in turn, allow New Zealand Rugby League to better support and resource grassroots rugby league throughout the country.
Lauitiiti is excited to share the game he loves with those in America who haven’t yet had the opportunity to experience ‘the hits’ in real life.
“Personally, I think it’s a great initiative and it’s worked for other sports so why can’t rugby league do the same thing. It’s our great game so why not bless the rest of the world with it,” he says.
Like Ali Lauitiiti, Kiwi #687 Henry Fa’afili remembers his days in the black and white jersey very fondly and only wishes he could do his time again running out at the world renowned Mile High Stadium.
“It would be disappointing if the game in Denver weren’t to go ahead. We’ve got the opportunity to make history with our great game so I think we need to embrace it,” Fa’afili says.
“You only have to see the excitement and reaction from the Americans when Shaun’s twinkle toes are on show. Then there’s Roger’s speed to beat players one on one, and Marty’s strength and power to fend and run over players. For them to experience it first-hand I think will be talked about for a long time,” he added.
Filipaina, Lauitiiti and Fa’afili, alongside a number of other former Kiwis continue to support the growth of rugby league in New Zealand even after hanging up the boots. This includes NZRL Board Member Tawera Nikau and Wellbeing Manager Nigel Vagana who work behind the scenes at NZRL to ensure rugby league continues to benefit New Zealanders across the country.
With the New Zealand Kiwis clash against England heading to Denver on 23 June, Americans will get the chance to experience rugby league in their backyard fore the first time…
Preparations for the Kiwis’ ground-breaking Test against England in Denver are coming together nicely, New Zealand Rugby League confirms.
The RLIF sanctioned match scheduled to be held on 23 June at Mile High Stadium will bring international rugby league to North America for the first time. With planning stages of the fixture in full-swing, NZRL can confirm the players’ insurance policy was also locked in earlier this week.
Players selected to represent their country while in Denver will continue to receive benefits that mirror the current NRL representative, State of Origin and ANZAC Test insurance policies in place. They will also receive the extra insurance required for playing in the United States.
In addition to medical concerns being allayed by Doctor, Greg Macleod, the confirmation of the insurance policy was another essential part of the planning stages that ensures the players will be well looked after.
Ample due diligence and player welfare is always at the forefront of planning for Tests in any part of the world and Kiwis Manager Nadene Conlon says the Test in Denver is no different.
“There’s always a lot of preparation that goes into any fixture the Kiwis play in, whether it’s a Test or a tour, and travelling overseas, regardless of where it is means the same rigorous processes are undertaken,” Conlon says.
“Of course playing in Denver brings with it some unique considerations but having experts on board like Greg Macleod allows us to be prepared in the best possible manner,” she says.
West Tigers co-captain Elijah Taylor and Warriors prop Adam Blair are a couple of the Kiwi eligible players who say excitement for the Test in Denver is brewing among the player networks.
“Pulling on the Kiwis jersey is always an honour and privilege – it’s the pinnacle for any New Zealand Rugby League player,”
“Any opportunity I get I’ll grab with both hands and I’m 100 percent committed to every Kiwi game wherever it’s played,”
“I understand the NRL clubs have concerns about playing in Denver, so it’s great to see the player insurance has been sorted for the Test, along with Doctor Macleod’s reassuring words that the conditions over there don’t increase our chances of injury,”
“In the camps I’ve been a part of with the Kiwis, we’ve been well looked after and I expect the Test in Denver will be no different,”
“If the Kiwis have future games in the Pacific Islands or Europe, I will be just as committed to making the Kiwis squad if given the privilege to play for my country,” Kiwi #770 Taylor says.
Kiwi #732 and RLPA Director Adam Blair adds, “everything looks like it’s falling into place and I’m excited not only for the international game but for NZRL as this is a great opportunity to show case our game in America.”
Applications for Kiwis head coach close later this afternoon when the high-powered coach selection panel will proceed to the next stage of the selection process.
The New Zealand Rugby League is on the lookout for a CEO who can lead NZRL through an exciting period of change.
You’ll be in charge of growth and development of the game across all levels while positively influencing communities throughout New Zealand.
ABOUT NEW ZEALAND RUGBY LEAGUE:
Rugby league has played a significant part in New Zealand sport for over 100 years. Formed in 1910, New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) is the governing body for the sport of rugby league in New Zealand. The NZRL catchment is divided into seven zones that service the grassroots needs of the game. These zones compete in the National Championship, as well as women’s, youth and schools competitions.
NZRL manages the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns who are both currently ranked number two in the world.
NZRL is not just about success on the field – it is also charged with caring for a community off-field, promoting the values of integrity, respect, leadership, courage and passion. The “more than just a game” philosophy has seen NZRL establish innovative social development programmes using rugby league to help communities improve their lives off the field.
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
The Reporting to the NZRL Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer will lead NZRL in a well-managed, successful and profitable manner as well as implementing high performance standards and expectations throughout the organization.
You will be responsible for the development and implementation of stakeholder management plans, business plans and strategies that grow the game across all levels and secures ongoing revenue streams that ensure the long-term security and viability of NZRL. Increasing the consumer, corporate, fan and participation base through the development and implementation of a well executed strategy and business plan will be very important. You will also be responsible for working closely with the Football Operations and High-Performance team to deliver sustainable long-term performance on the field.
Essential to the success of this role will require building and developing high value, long term, outcome focused relationships with Clubs, Zones, Districts, the NRL, Sport New Zealand, Commercial Partners and other key agencies and stakeholders.
KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND CAPABILITIES
You will have proven Chief Executive Officer or Senior Executive experience including reporting into a board. You will possess exceptional leadership capabilities and management experience, ability to develop and implement strategic change, strong commercial acumen and possess outstanding ability to build, develop and harness sustainable relationships across diverse stakeholder groups.
The successful candidate will be a resilient, dynamic and engaging individual with political maturity and experience with the media as the CEO will be the face and voice of rugby league in New Zealand. Knowledge and understanding of national sporting organisations as well as an interest in rugby league will be well regarded but is not essential.
APPLICATION CLOSING DATE: 5pm Sunday 22nd April, 2018
Global Elite Sports (www.globalelitesports.com) have been contracted by New Zealand Rugby League exclusively to manage this search assignment.
To apply, please submit your application with cover letter to
richard@globalelitesports.com or visit www.globalelitesports.com for more information.
Last month, Kiwi Ferns Raquel Anderson and Shontelle Woodman toured schools in Waikato and Auckland spreading the word about education.
As Duffy Books amabassadors, the pair attended assemblies at Tainui Full Primary School, Pukemiro School, Waipa Primary School and Ngaruawahia Primary School giving the gift of learning and promoting the message that ‘It’s Cool to Read and Cool to Achieve’.
For Kiwi Fern Raquel Anderson, her school visit was extra special. Going back to Tainui Full Primary School to share her journey into the Kiwi Ferns jersey, the school she attended as a youngster, had her reminiscing on her days as an eager student.
“I absolutely loved going back to my old primary school it brought back all those feel good memories,” she said.
“There was one boy with autism and aspergers who I’d heard hated going to assembly last year. When I gave him his books he was smiling from ear to ear and even helped me hand out the books to other the kids. That was a precious moment and reminded me just how special it is for these schools to be involved with the Duffy Books in Homes programme.
“Having gratitude, getting a good education and giving back to the community are just as important to being a Kiwi Fern as taking to the field so putting these sort of things into practice are very rewarding for us players,” she added.
Duffy Books in Homes is a literacy programme aimed at breaking the cycle of booklessness in decile 1 – 4 primary and intermediate schools throughout New Zealand. There are 517 schools on the programme and over 100,000 children who get to choose five brand new books each per year as well as the opportunity to ‘earn’ extra books through the ‘Caught Being Good Awards’ incentive.
Former Kiwi Ferns captain and NZRL Wellbeing and Women’s Development Manager, Luisa Avaiki, has been named as head coach of the Warriors’ new NRL women’s team.
The Warriors were confirmed as one of four clubs in the new NRL women’s competition on Tuesday and appointed Avaiki on Wednesday.
Avaiki captained the Kiwi Ferns to victory in two of the first three women’s World Cup tournaments in 2003 and 2008 and was a part of the Kiwi Ferns team that won the inaugural World Cup. Her international career stretched from 1995-2009.
She has been prominent in coaching since her retirement from playing, and has worked for the Melbourne Storm as their games development officer. She has been the New Zealand Rugby League’s well-being and women’s development manager since 2016.
Avaiki, who has also represented Samoa in rugby league, rugby union and touch, said she was humbled when given the opportunity to become the club’s first NRL women’s coach. The Warriors believe she is the first woman to have a coaching position with an NRL club.
The competition, which will also involve the Sydney Roosters, St George-Illawarra Dragons and Brisbane Broncos, will start later this year.
“Women’s rugby league has a long history in New Zealand but the introduction of this competition has taken our game to a whole new level,” she said.
“It’s a huge honour having the chance to take up this role.”
Warriors general manager of football Brian Smith said the club was thrilled to appoint Avaiki.
“It was a huge day being named as one of the four foundation clubs yesterday and it’s even more exciting to be able to announce Luisa’s appointment today. We were keen to move on this quickly as we seek to build our team.
“The new competition is taking the club and the women’s game into a completely new era which we’re so proud to a part of.”
Warriors CEO Cameron George, head coach Stephen Kearney, Smith and Avaiki met prospective players for the women’s team at Mount Smart Stadium on Wednesday night.
“For us, our women’s team will be just like our other three sides in the NRL, the Intrust Super Premiership and the Jersey Flegg Cup,” said George.
“They’ll strive to attain the same values we have for the club’s other teams.
“We are all about winning, about having a crack every time we play and making our members and fans proud.”
Following the conclusion of the Talent Development Programme, New Zealand Rugby League is excited to announce the 25-man squads for the NZ16s Residents and NZ18s Residents. Congratulations to all of those selected.
Fixtures and more information on these teams will be released in the coming week.
Finals weekend of the Talent Development Programme’s competition phase saw whanau come from near and far to watch the hard work pay off at Cornwall Park for the TDP’s inaugural year.
Players from all corners of New Zealand, from Whangarei to Invercargill representing four hubs (Central, Southern, Northern and Counties) gathered in Auckland for the finals of the Talent Development Programme (TDP). The players had been involved in a 10 week programme which saw them cover fundamental skills, introduction to strength and conditioning and wellbeing education such as DrugFree Sport NZ, Careerwise and mental health workshops.
On Saturday, Counties fired up for a thriller game against Northern for the final of the 16s age group where Counties came out on top with a narrow 31-26 victory.
After a hard fought battle to reach the 18s final, Central fell to Northern 22-14 in a match-up that promised a lot of blood sweat and tears.
NZRL’s Talent Manager David McMeeken reflects on the programme’s inaugural year.
“Following the weekend’s final games, the programme is now up and running and a recognised layer to the NZRL pathway for these aspiring players. It has been a huge programme to get started, which has seen around 200 players involved in 10 weeks of training across the country and over 50 staff driving the TDP in their local areas,” he said.
“The programme has given those involved some learnings on how to prepare themselves for the rigours of high performance environments such as the NRL, whilst offering a viable pathway for them to remain here in New Zealand. This will in turn strengthen the grassroots of the game through retention. The TDP has provided a development opportunity for all staff including coaches, managers and strength and conditioning staff and it is hoped that they take their key learnings back to their respective clubs or regions to help with the development of the game,” McMeeken added.
Through a review involving players, staff and key stakeholders, key work-ons will be identified to help ensure the TDP goes from strength to strength in the years to come. NZRL recognises the support and financial funding from the NRL which has made this venture possible.
25 man squads for both 16s and 18s will be announced on Thursday March 29.
See results and awards below:
16s: Tournament MVP – Dayna Bidois (Central) Northern 26 – Counties 31 Southern 18 – Central 26
18s: Tournament MVP – Brooklyn Herewini (Central) Southern 20 – Counties 40 Northern 22 – Central 14
Northern 26 – Counties 31 – 16s
Southern 18 – Central 26 – 16s
Southern 20 – Counties 40 – 18s
Northern 22 – Central 14 – 18s
In case you missed it on the Sky Sports #KiwiLeagueShow…
The Kiwi League Show speak with NZRL Talent Manager David McMeeken, Referee Harley Wall, the coaches and players in the Talent Development Programme about their experience being a part of the 10 week programme.
A sports medicine specialist who will act as New Zealand’s official team doctor for the proposed Denver Test – and has vast experience with Super Rugby sides playing at altitude – insists there is no science to support growing player welfare concerns over the contentious fixture.
The Kiwis’ travelling physician Dr Greg Macleod, who once helped prepare the Otago Highlanders for a gruelling six-week round-the-world odyssey where they played on a different continent each week, stressed players would not be more exposed to injury if the mid-season match went ahead.
The NRL, its clubs and the Rugby League Players Association will hand a letter to the New Zealand Rugby League and Rugby Football League this week, escalating their resistance against the fixture being played at Denver’s Mile High Stadium.
But Dr Macleod was adamant that the expected Denver heat, travel toll and altitude would not increase the injury risk for the millions of dollars of NRL talent that could make the trip. A proposal to have the number of interchanges rise from the internationally recognised 10 to 12 as well drinks breaks midway through each half has been discussed for the Test, which is hoped to provide rugby league with a toehold in the United States before the 2025 World Cup.
Asked about playing at the highest altitude city in the United States, current Queensland Reds doctor Dr Macleod told Fairfax Media: “It’s not what I would consider significantly high altitude and it is not the level of altitude where you would expect altitude sickness.
“I would say 1600 metres is above a level where you feel the effects in terms of performance, but Johannesburg is over 2000 metres and we have Test matches and Super Rugby games there, including travel, all the time.
“I’ve spoken to medical staff in Denver – including paramedics who run the medical support at the stadium and work with the [NFL’s Denver] Broncos – and one gentleman who has been there for 27 years as a paramedic said he’s never seen a case of altitude-related illness from people playing at Mile High Stadium.
“This is NFL where guys are 350 pounds and 150 kilos and playing in full gear. I know it’s a different sport, but it doesn’t seem to happen for guys that have played there.
“You’ve got to remember Denver and Colorado has an Olympic training centre and people deliberately go there to train at altitude and deliberately go there to put themselves under physiological stress and challenge themselves to improve their performance. No one has any welfare concerns regarding that.
“I just can’t see how 1600 metres is a concern because it’s not proven [scientifically]. I’ve never seen anyone have health consequences because they’ve played at this sort of altitude.” Some NRL players, including the Dragons’ Gareth Widdop and James Graham, would need to fulfil NRL commitments with St George Illawarra a little more than 48 hours after arriving back in Australia after the Test, which has been mooted for June 24.
Both have given their backing for the match, which could be played in temperatures around the 30-degree mark in the northern hemisphere’s early summer.
Dr Macleod argued NRL and Super Rugby pre-season and early regular season matches are often played in searing heat nudging the 40-degree mark, as evidenced when Manly brutalised Parramatta a little over a week ago at Lottoland.
That clash kicked off as the mercury nudged 39 degrees and didn’t feature any mid-game drinks breaks.
“Denver has dry heat and a low humidity so that 30 degrees is a much more comfortable temperature than if it was combined with humidity,” Dr Macleod said. “The heat thing is a non-issue and we have many examples of players playing in higher heat and more extreme conditions than that.”
If the match gets the green light, New Zealand players will travel in business class to Denver to allow for better sleep patterns as well as using masks to help with hydration and reduce the chance of picking up viruses.
While conceding the heavy travel schedule could affect the performance of both New Zealand and England, Dr Macleod denied it would enhance the chances of any player picking up an injury – and would be no greater risk than if a NSW or Queensland representative turned out for his club 48 hours after a State of Origin match.
“The theory that you can’t travel, but play a lot of games in a short space of time seems a bit odd,” he said. “It is a long way and no one is denying that, but it’s not the furthest a sports team has travelled.
“If you look at what the [Rugby] Sevens guys do – which is a far greater travel load than what we’re looking at here – there was a study which followed players over a five-year period and it confirmed there is no increased significant injury risk for them as opposed to players who didn’t travel that far.
“Travel does affect performance, but both teams are in the same boat.”
Dr Macleod said he is yet to be consulted by anyone acting on behalf of the NRL about player welfare issues that may stem from the Denver match on June 24.
A high-powered panel chaired by Kiwi great Dean Bell has been named to lead the appointment process for the next Kiwis coach.
Besides Bell, Frank Endacott, Monty Betham and Waimarama Taumaunu will interview candidates and make a recommendation to the NZRL board which will finalise the appointment.
Also on the panel will be a Recruitment Specialist who will be tasked with supporting the panel on all HR matters and ensuring the transparency of the recruitment process. The position is now officially open to all interested applicants, not just New Zealand-based coaches. Applications will close 6th April, 2018.
“A key recommendation of the post 2017 World Cup review was that there should be more transparency and rigor around various appointments NZRL chairman Reon Edwards says.
“This independent panel is a great step forward for what is going to be a busy year for the game.”
Panel convenor Dean Bell says there should be no excuses for the Kiwis not being competitive.
“With the depth of rugby league talent the Kiwis have at their disposal, we should be challenging the best international sides, including Australia, and achieving consistent success,” Dean says.
“I’ve already spoken with other members of the panel and as a group we’re determined to support the NZRL in moving on from the issues raised in the review of the last World Cup campaign,” he says. “We need to make sure that test football is given the status it deserves.”
He says the task for the panel is to ensure the appointment of a coach who can get the best out of the players.
The first challenge for the national side is a one-off test against England in Denver, Colorado on 23 June. This will be followed by a home test against Australia later in the year and a tour of England and France in October and November.
“The test has been scheduled in the internationally agreed window, so we’re now just working with the clubs in Australia to ensure we put the best possible team on the field,” Edwards says.
All enquiries regarding the coaching position should be direct to Hannah Speedy, email hannahespeedy@gmail.com.
― ENDS ―
Panel biographies
Dean Bell ― Convenor Dean played 26 tests for the Kiwis from 1983 to 1989. He was Football Manager for the Kiwis successful 2008 campaign in Australia. Dean has been named as one of NZRL’s Immortals and inducted as one of the NZRL’s Legends of League in 2000.
Frank Endacott Frank coached the Kiwis in 35 games from 1995 to 2000, including in two World Cups, in 1995 and 2000. He previously coached the Canterbury provincial coach before joining the NZ Warriors. He also coached the Wigan Warriors and Widness in the UK.
Waimarama Taumaunu Waimarama was a Silver Fern from 1981 to 1991, and was a member of the World Championship winning team of 1987. She was captain in the last three years of her international career. She worked as national performance director for All England Netball, before coaching the Capital Shakers and the Silver Ferns from 2011-2015.
Monty Betham Monty played 101 games for the New Zealand Warriors between 1999 and 2005 and a season with the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats in the English Super League. He represented Samoa at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup and played eight tests for the Kiwis between 2001-2006. He followed his time in league with a professional boxing career before moving to the media.
By Steve Mascord
The Denver Test is one of those rugby league issues that is easy to become emotionally invested in and spend hours on social media arguing about.
With each passing day there is another story – most out of Australia – questioning the timing and venue of an international not involving the Kangaroos on a weekend that has no NRL games, with attempts to cast continuing doubt over whether players will be released.
If the distance won’t work as an excuse why players should not be released – England travelled further last year to play Samoa in Campbelltown – then it’s the altitude, even though presumably they don’t use a lever to lower the Sports Authority Stadium when the Broncos’ rival NFL teams visit.
Hell – pun intended – officials in Australia, who play friendlies in February heat and have a team in tropical north Queensland – have even cited the temperature in June as a major concern.
Your columnist could go on and on about this…….
But then I remembered that when I grew up watching rugby league, some of the best overseas players never represented their countries anywhere, let alone at Mile High Stadium.
When Malcolm Reilly and Tommy Bishop went Down Under, they mostly gave up their Great Britain shirts.
Brian Bevan, probably the greatest Australian winger of all time, never wore the green and gold because he lived in Warrington.
The first New Zealand player I was ever aware of, Henry Tatana, played his whole nine-Test international career before he crossed the Tasman to join Canterbury and then my favourite team as a kid, St George.
This list goes on. Dane and Kurt Sorensen, the Cronulla greats, had to listen to the Kiwis on the radio at their peak because they would not be released mid-season to play for their country.
We rugby league tree-hugging liberals use soccer as an example to support our arguments but Australian soccer’s famous Liverpool man, Craig Johnston, didn’t wear the green and gold either. Ever.
The stand-alone Origin weekend presents rugby league with a unique style of ‘FIFA window’ this year. It’s new territory. Of course there is going to be push-back from clubs and others protecting their own interests.
What we are experiencing are merely growing pains. If there was such a concentration of the world’s best in one competition in other sports, those domestic competitions would try it on, too.
In 2006, a New Zealand side with just three NRL players met a Great Britain line-up with one (Adrian Morley) in the middle of the season at Knowsley Road. At 46-14 to GB, it was a bit one-sided. But international rugby league didn’t spontaneously combust. They had to field teams and they did.
So while I could continue to wax sarcasm over the administrative soap opera surrounding the Denver Test on June 23, I’m going to try really hard to focus on how far we’ve come since the days of Bevan, Reilly, Bishop, Tatana and the Sorensens.
We’re playing a mid-season Test at a neutral venue, just like the big boys of international sport. It’s something to be happy, not bitter and twisted, about.
There’s a Test on at Sports Authority Field. New Zealand and England have agreed to field the best teams they can. Tickets have been sold.
I’m going. So are some of you. The stragglers will catch up with us when they’re ready.
Kiwis flood star-studded line-ups of the NRL’s top performing teams after round two of the 2018 season.
The Manly Sea Eagles recorded their biggest ever win over the Paramattah Eels, 54-0, with their Kiwi contingent leading the charge.
Monstrous forwards, Addin Fonua-Blake (Kiwi #807) and Martin Taupau (Kiwi #785) were sublime up front providing the muscle to get their side across the line for nine tries – one of which Fonua-Blake crossed for himself.
In another game most wouldn’t have picked, Kiwi #769 Alex Glenn was among the top defenders adding to his impressive 82 tackles he has racked up over just two rounds. That propels Glenn into third spot for most tackles behind Andrew McCullough and Jake Friend.
With Glenn’s defense and the attacking nouse of Kodi Nikorima (Kiwi #793), the Broncos stunned the Cowboys in a stellar 24-20 victory in front of a home crowd in Brisbane.
The Warriors didn’t disappoint either, bringing home their second win making it two from two.
Kiwi skipper Adam Blair continued to make his presence known, offload after offload connecting with Kiwis teammate and Warriors captain Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to produce some moments of brilliance.
Tohu Harris also provided the grunt in the forward pack finding himself on the NRL leaderboard for third most linebreak assists.
There were also plenty of Kiwi boys in the Tigers side that orchestrated the upset of round two defeating the Storm 10-8.
It was Kiwi #756 Ben Matulino whose pass found the hands of Luke Brooks who dived to score the match-winner shocking a disbelieving Melbourne crowd.
Led by veteran Kiwi half Benji Marshall, whose organisational skills and intelligent kicking constantly tested the Storm’s back three, the visitors stepped up once again.
The Tigers refused to get overawed by the Storm’s monster pack and led by Kiwis Russell Packer, Ben Matulino and Elijah Taylor dominated the early exchanges.
If round two’s performances are anything to go by, Kiwi fans will be in for a treat when the first international Test in Denver comes about in June.
Round three of the Talent Development Programme’s competition phase saw the level of rugby league go up a notch where stakes were at their highest.
Teams had finals in their sights as Northern faced Southern and Counties went head to head with Central in both 16s and 18s age groups. Counties 16s waltzed into the final winning three from three where they will take on Northern who conceded only one game to Counties.
The 18s age-group saw Northern comfortably beat Southern for a spot in the final where they will play Central who pipped Counties in a thriller on Saturday afternoon.
Results from round three with footage below:
16s: Northern 44 – 6 Southern Counties 56 – 4 Central
18s: Central 40 – 36 Counties Northern 52 – 36 Southern
Finals draw to be played Saturday, March 24 at Cornwall Park:
16s – Field one – 11am Counties v Northern – Field three – 11am Central v Southern
18s – Field one – 1pm Northern v Central – Field three – 1pm Southern v Counties
16s: Northern 44 – 6 Southern
Counties 56 – 4 Central
18s: Central 40 – 36 Counties
Northern 52 – 36 Southern
February and March continue to be the busiest months in the calendar for coach education. All zones and districts are well underway with running courses and workshops and we continue to see an increase in the uptake from our rugby league communities.
Coaching courses continue to be offered nationally and some areas are really embracing the development opportunities on offer.
Southern Zone has already serviced all districts with official NZRL accreditations and is now in a position to offer workshops to continue the learnings. Canterbury Rugby League continue to lead the charge down south with a healthy number of volunteers coming through the courses but Otago, Southland and Tasman have also welcomed a good number of volunteers to participate and complete courses.
With 34 coaches in the South Island having completed the ‘Developing Coaching Course’ during February and March, footy in the South is bound to benefit with these coaches set to impart their knowledge onto new and returning players this season.
The North Island is also experiencing increased levels of engagement in the coaching community. Auckland Rugby League are in full swing with their coach education programmes and we have seen a huge uptake in coaches attending workshops and courses. Signs are looking promising for another good year for coach development and NZRL encourage any new coaches, parents or volunteers to contact local zones and districts to enquire about the next personal development opportunity.
Interested in up-skilling as a rugby league coach? Find a course near you here.
Northland Rugby League’s very own wahine toa Chantez Connor selflessly gives her time to the game expecting absolutely nothing in return.
Connor reluctantly accepted the Pirtek Female Volunteer of the Year award at this year’s Annual NZRL Awards and her touching acceptance speech encapsulated the passion that is so evident in the rugby league community.
Her sheer dedication towards servicing the game of rugby league in Northland stems from when Connor first became involved in rugby league when she was five-years-old. She is now a qualified coach and referee, club administrator and team manager who is involved in all aspects of the game from juniors through to premiers.
In recent years she has been instrumental in growing participation and interest in the women’s game. In 2016, Chantez started a women’s team and grew interest to organise a match in the far north and fundraised for an Auckland team to play in Whangarei. 2017, for this passionate Northlander, started with a revamp of the Rugby League Northland Premiership linking history, seeking sponsorshio and producing a video promotion for an advertising campaign.
However, her work didn’t stop there. After a 25 year absence, she led the charge to include a Northland team in the NZRL National Women’s Tournament. As a result of this, there has been a surge in registrations from teenage girls no wanting to play rugby league. This success looks to be emulated through the formation of a school girls’ competition in the region.
With these commitments, plus her own job and family to look after, Rugby League Northland appreciate the extra hours she puts in to making sure rugby league thrives in the region.
New Zealand Rugby League would like to thank Chantez for her ongoing voluntary commitment and passion towards the game that is having such a positive impact in Northland.
At a media conference in Auckland today NZRL Board Chair Reon Edwards, together with Deputy Chair and Acting CEO Hugh Martyn, welcomed the Review Panel findings, describing the process as having been robust and enlightening.
“Disappointing as it was, the Kiwis 2017 loss could ultimately be for the best for the game,” said Edwards. “This is a good wake-up call and an opportunity for a fresh start.
“While Tim and Raelene’s report identifies very clearly where things went wrong, importantly they have provided the NZRL a solid framework to help us deliver on our high performance requirements, improve our selection processes, enhance risk management, and ensure we vastly improve our planning and communication.
“We have already implemented the Review Panel recommendation to change the policy that the Kiwis’ Head Coach must be a New Zealander, and next week we will announce the make up of the new selection panel.
Chair of the Independent Review Panel, Tim Castle: “All those whom we interviewed for the purposes of our work co-operated fully and we have had the advantage of very candid responses to the hard questions.
“We took this task on with the objective of putting everything and everyone under scrutiny, so that there could be a constructive analysis to the best advantage of the sport going forwards. Martyn said: “As a relatively new board member I have been hugely impressed with the willingness of the Board to accept accountability, and in a very transparent manner without fear or favour.
“We are now very well positioned to make changes that will have far reaching, positive effects and get the best outcomes for the game.”
REVIEW PANEL RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Vastly improve and comprehensively document its “fit for purpose” High Performance Plans, Programmes and measures for success at the elite level and integrate them into the organisation. We consider that this Report must be factored into these steps. The High Performance Plans, Programmes and measures for success must, among other things, incorporate: • a dedicated support structure with required expertise to ensure the Kiwis Head Coach and coaching staff have all the tools and support for desired Kiwis success in their international campaigns. • a player relationship management policy and development plan to provide for strong player welfare and culture • a comprehensive Risk/Opportunity Management Plan • all such other policy and programme requirements of a quality High Performance Plan as distilled from the following recommendations and this Report.
2. Enhance its knowledge, expertise, understanding, leadership and capability at the high performance sport level, and at the CEO position. Document job descriptions and required essential skills for all relevant positions; and design and document all processes and procedures to achieve the enhancements described. These steps must also include a clear articulation of the arrangements to be put in place to provide full support for the Kiwis’ Head Coach, including the vastly improved High Performance plans and programmes already referred to.
3. Change the current NZRL policy that the Kiwis’ Head Coach must be a New Zealander; and open recruitment and appointment processes to ensure the best person for the position is appointed.
4. Review and update its current Player Selection Policy to better reflect the capabilities and qualities being sought for all positions in the Kiwis.
5. Develop a highly sensitive and efficient player communication programme and policy to facilitate ease of communications across the entire NZRL organisation, including its High Performance and coaching positions, with all elite players.
6. Develop genuine and enduring relationships between the entire NZRL organisation, including its High Performance and coaching positions, and all elite players, including potential elite players.
7. Review and update, or create as necessary, communications policies and plans with players and staff, Social Media Policy, Media Policy, Crisis Communications Policy, and Media Plan; and incorporate these policies and plans into the new improved High Performance Plan identified in Recommendation No. 1 above.
8. Review appropriate contractual arrangements for players which maintain the integrity of current eligibility rules, but provide the best prospect of player stability for the Kiwis.
9. Review the appropriateness and efficiency of its structure and organisation and make any necessary changes. In particular, but without limitation, we recommend that the NZRL consider recruiting on/in to its governance arrangements (including the Board) high performance sport expertise.
REVIEW PANEL HIGH LEVEL FINDINGS
1. A complete lack of proven high performance sport (HP) expertise within the NZRL organisation and the supporting structures that need to be put in place for sustained success.
2. A systemic failure of senior NZRL leadership to identify HP problems and inadequacies, and no obvious ability to identify and manage the risks arising.
3. The Kiwis’ campaign was disadvantaged by the NZRL appointment of an inexperienced Head Coach (with potential nonetheless) who attempted to implement too much in a short space of time and treated the RLWC like a ‘Test’ event instead of the pinnacle of the Kiwis 4 year calendar.
4. NZRL let down Head Coach David Kidwell specifically in not providing him with the carefully and strategically designed 2014 – 2017 High Level Kiwis Campaign Plan. We record that in our view the Head Coach should have, upon his appointment asked for and insisted on being provided with that High Level Plan. David Kidwell acknowledged that indeed he should have done this but did not do so. We consider that his failing in this regard was unsatisfactory. It does not however, in our view, excuse the failure of NZRL senior leadership to provide its Kiwis Head Coach with that High Level Plan.
A copy of the Review Panel’s Summary report is available in the link below:
NZRL Independent Review 16 March
#ENDS
The NRL is set to play a Telstra Premiership match in the United States as early as next year.
Multiple media reports say the game is set to be played in the US, with planning already underway to make it a reality.
It is likely that the two sides who play in the US would be given extended breaks on either side of the long trip in order to deal with the minimum 12-hour flight players would face in both directions.
NRL CEO Todd Greenberg told Fairfax Media that planning was well advanced.
“We’re in discussions about that now,” Greenberg said. “It’s a big landing process on a number of fronts. You need to work with the broadcasters, you’ve also got to work through travel, recovery. But it’s certainly on our radar.
“The destinations in North America are available in a good broadcast timeslot, so that’s what we’re looking at. The ball is in our court in regards to scheduling and player workload. We’re actively working on that now for 2019 and 2020. Next year we could have teams playing for points in America.”
If the game was played on the West Coast means cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and possibly even Las Vegas would be in the mix.
As far as stadiums go, the NRL will have a plethora to choose from.
From the 90,000 seat Rose Bowl in Los Angeles to dozens of smaller rectangular venues used by both professional and college teams, there is no shortage of options.
As seen on NRL.com
Central 16s 6 Northern 16s 32
Counties 16s 60 Southern 16s 0
Counties 18s 42 Southern 18s 28
Central 18s 16 Northern 18s 30
New Zealand Rugby League now invites nominations for Life Membership and Distinguished Service Awards.
These are prestigious honours that are not awarded lightly nor earned as of right. They are awarded for long, well-documented and meritorious service.
Recipients must have: – During their time, advanced or improved the game of rugby league significantly, such that their contribution is widely recognised as outstanding – Introduced policies or initiatives that have made a significant impact, either at national or district/zone level – Ideally be life members at both club and district/zone level first before being considered at national level
Nomination forms can be found on the NZRL website here under Life Member Nomination forms.
Please send nomination forms to tnepe@nzrl.co.nz by 5pm Friday March 30, 2018.
Tauranga based referee, Paki Parkinson, is reaping the benefits of the NZRL National Referee Programme. Parkinson was selected to attend the RLIF sanctioned International 9s Tournament in Samoa after his performances in this year’s pre-season trial fixtures.
Parkinson, a former premier player, was identified by NRL Referee and NZRL Match Official of the Year Chris McMillan as someone with great potential when he attended a level one course in the Bay of Plenty. He quickly integrated himself into the referees’ community going on to referee the Final of the 2017 National Secondary Schools Tournament and fixtures of the National Youth Tournament leading to his selection in the NZRL Referees’ Academy.
Paki Parkinson tells us about his experience in Samoa:
“My Samoan journey started with an official welcome into the tournament with a traditional kava ceremony; this was a first for me. Twelve teams total, it looked like a heavy day with 20 matches between three of us. After the meeting the local referees and I shared a few tips around different rulings. I was fortunate to be able to watch the first four round robin games and managed to do a bit of referee coaching. Being able to share some of my knowledge with other talented referees and learn equally from them was a humbling experience.
Over the whole tournament I was privileged enough to referee six games including the finals. Four round robin games, one semi and the grand final. The weather was very humid and challenging to say the least. The weather was a combination of 35-40 degree heat, torrential rain and thunder storms which was so normal to the locals it didn’t seem to faze them. I really enjoyed the quality of Samoan rugby league, with loads of talent shown considering the slippery wet conditions. With two local teams in the final – Apia Barracudas & Marist Saints – the game was played in high spirits and with such passion; Apia coming out on top 12-8. Before flying home I got to experience some local food and culture in which I thoroughly enjoyed.”
You’ll struggle to find a volunteer who has dedicated more of their life to rugby league than Jack Newson.
The 75-year-old was the well deserved recipient of the Male Pirtek Volunteer of the Year award at the NZRL Annual Awards earlier this year. This award recognises the tireless efforts of our sport’s behind-the-scenes legends at grassroots level.
As a Life Member of the Hornby Rugby League Club, Newson lives and breathes the game and is said to be one of the club’s biggest supporters.
“He is extremely humble, and never ever asks for anything in return. We as a club are honoured to be in his presence”
His involvement with the Hornby Rugby League Club spans over 65 years as a player, coach, executive member and life member, and he currently still plays for the Masters team. Not only does he help with skills days for juniors, he fixes and maintains the club and is always the first person to be watching and supporting around Canterbury’s fields.
Newson sat down with Andrew King from Christchurch’s Western News to chat about his life of rugby league.
So Jack, you have a longstanding tie with the Hornby Panthers, 66 years and counting. What got you into league?
“When I was growing up every young kid around the country wanted to be an All Black. But we were from Hornby and we wanted to be Kiwis. That was the difference, we are a staunch rugby league area. League dominated and I still love the game right up to today. It has been my life.”
Now you volunteer for the club and was named top male volunteer of the year by NZRL. Are there more people helping out nowadays or less?
“There is plenty of people who help out with the club and we have an excellent committee who gets a lot of work done. I just help out when I can and I don’t live far away. I go over there every week. I like to go to the schoolboys’ prize giving. I love watching the younger kids coming through. Gave up coaching but I really like watching them develop their skills. There is a lot of good coaches there now, that have passed me. I used to coach 14s take them to 15s then to 16s and then drop back down and do it all over again.”
So what keeps you coming back to help out?
“It is part of my life. My love of the club, the sport all rolls into one. It is a major part of my life. When my boys finished playing I was a bit lost. I had been flat tack chasing teams here there everywhere then it just stopped. Now grand kids are coming through so it all started again.”
Kiwi #695 Lance Hohaia takes us back to his glory days in the black and white jersey and tells us about his new life as a coach in America.
When did you start playing rugby league as a child and who or what got you into the sport?
“I started playing when I was six years old for Huntly South. One of my best friends who was the best man at my wedding, he and I played together and his dad was the coach – I think I moved to Taniwharau the next year for under sevens. I grew up in the rugby league town of Huntly where my dad played and coached and my brother also played so it was inevitable that I’d end up playing footy. I’m really happy to have grown up in that town and it’s been a great journey since then”
Tell us about your rugby league career so far – coming from the humble beginnings of Taniwharau to becoming a coach in the United States:
“I played all through the age grades from under sixes right up until under 18s representing Waikato and each year from under tens to 18s we’d have National tournaments – those tournaments had club scouts there looking for the next big thing. I was approached by the Warriors when I was at the 16s tournament and I think back then I was offered $1000, a tracksuit and some free medical care. I jumped at the opportunity to be involved with that club – I grew up watching guys like Stacey Jones who were smaller in stature but were tough players – I turned 18 while I was still at high school and before I was finished high school I was offered a full time contract to play for the Warriors in 2001 (I was part time before that) where I played the following season. PJ Marsh broke his ankle in one of the first games of the season and I didn’t really intend on playing many games in 2002. Daniel Anderson was the head coach at the time and said to me, ”I think you’re ready, do you think you’re ready” and I of course said “Yes, I think I’m ready” so I think it was around round two or three of that season when I debuted for the Warriors against North Queensland in Townsville. From that point I played many years after that and I think personally 2008 and 2009 were my best seasons. I ended up staying till 2011 when I got offered an opportunity to play in the Super League in St Helen’s – I had been with the Warriors for 10 years and I thought a change was needed – my fiancé (now wife) agreed that it would be a cool little adventure to go on. We spent some time in the UK which was a bit of a turbulent time, it was hard for us to settle in as a family. Both of our young boys were born there and we didn’t have a lot of family support there and the Grand Final incident happened in 2015 which was quite a low point for us. We then moved to the United States after I retired which is where we live now and life’s going pretty good for us now.”
What challenges did you face as a young rugby league player transitioning into the professional world of rugby league?
“There were lots of challenges. I was 18-years-old earning six figures and dealing with media pressure, people wanting to spend time with you and looking back I was a kid who wasn’t equipped to deal with that stuff. It was tough, I feel like I was still able to play well over those years but it took time to adjust to that environment and it forced me to grow up quickly. I don’t have any regrets when I look back as it’s made me the person I am today. But, the pressure to perform, dealing with injuries, looking after yourself and being professional – they’re all things that take time and are learnt by making mistakes, I know I made a few. By the end of my career I was well on top of all of those things so I’m happy with my experiences and ups and downs that happened along the way.”
What’s your favourite league memory?
“As a player, my debut was very special, my last game for the Warriors was very special and winning the World Cup, alongside my debut for the Kiwis are the things are remember the most in terms of my accomplishments. The friends I made and the people I met – I have 100 more memories that I could rattle off. As a spectator, I remember being in Manchester when the Kiwis played Australia in the final of the World Cup, I was living there at the time and cheering them on in a foreign country, despite the outcome, was quite a cool moment. Coaching wise, I’ve been coaching a college team over here in the U.S. and they’ve gone from 35th to 5th in the nation over the past three years. I’m happy to say I had a little part to play in that and that’s probably one of my proudest moments so far.”
What was the best part of running out in the black and white jersey as a Kiwi?
“Knowing that I was representing my nation, my family, my kids and my wife – that is something that I’m pretty proud of. Listening to the national anthem at the start of the game is always something you see us players get quite emotional about. At that point you’re thinking of family members that have passed on, the effort, sacrifices and commitment it’s taken to get to that point – all those things just sit with you in that moment which is pretty cool.”
Video coming soon…
New Zealand Rugby League’s new look junior development programme entered its competition phase on the weekend with each of the teams coming together in Auckland.
Saturday saw teams from all four hubs (Central, Southern, Northern and Counties) gather for the first of a four-weekend competition where the players are able to put into practice the skills they have learnt during their first six weeks of training. This training included strength and conditioning, rugby league specific field sessions and wellbeing education such as DrugFree Sport NZ, Careerwise and mental health workshops.
The innovative new Talent Development Programme (TDP) has been designed to better prepare players working towards a professional career, while keeping players closer to home and playing in local competitions longer. For more information on the Talent Development Programme – click here.
Results from week one:
Counties 16s – 18 Northern 16s – 14
Central 16s – 32 Southern 16s – 14
Central 18s – 38 Southern 18s – 26
Northern 18s – 26 Counties 18s – 16
Following the success of the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, the new world rankings have been announced for the men’s game and, for the first time, the women.
Australia, after picking up the silverware in both tournaments, are at the head of the respective tables.
Kangaroos head coach Mal Meninga said “We believe a strong international programme is essential and see our success, and the manner in which we fought for it, as a catalyst in continuing this push to prioritise Test match rugby league. The players have been central to this achievement and I know they are very proud and humble to maintain the status quo.”
Nine nations make up the inaugural Women’s rankings.
In the men’s rankings, Lebanon are the main movers, up nine places from eighteenth into the top ten, whilst Tonga go from eleventh to fourth. Papua New Guinea rise six places to tenth and there is a welcome move for Chile, who won the first South American Championship, as they go from 37th to 32nd in a year when more internationals have been played than ever before.
Tongan head coach Kristian Woolf noted: “The Mate Ma’a’s move is just reward for a very strong year including a great World Cup campaign. It is something we want to continue, with the opportunity to be involved in more International games in the future and the ability to compete against the top three nations.”
PNGRL chairman Sandis Tsaka added: “The performance of the Kumuls during the 2017 World Cup has helped PNG get back up the world rankings and we now have the challenge of continuing to rise by playing more full international games. The PNG supporters and players have shown that they love international rugby league.”
David Collier OBE, chief executive of the Rugby League International Federation, commented: “On behalf of the RLIF board I would like to congratulate Australia on retaining their position and the other major movers, in particular Lebanon, Fiji, PNG and Tonga who all lit up the World Cup.”
“The rankings are a statistically-weighted reflection of results over the past five years, with greater emphasis on recent displays. Scotland and Samoa have retained a top six place due to their recent performances against the tier one nations, and Ireland are improving on the field yet drop out of the top 10 because of the ranking of the opposition they faced.
“What we have seen is that the success of the World Cup has reinvigorated the international game, even more fixtures are being arranged across the tiers and that will have a reflection in future rankings as past results gradually degrade.”
The Test series scheduled for next autumn between England and New Zealand will, most likely, determine which nation will end 2018 as the second ranked side.
Women’s Rankings
1. Australia 2. New Zealand 3. England 4. Canada 5. Cook Islands 6. Papua New Guinea 7. France 8. Italy 9. Lebanon
Men’s Rankings Current / Previously 1. Australia 1 2. New Zealand 2 3. England 3 4. Tonga 11 5. Fiji 7 6. Samoa 5 7. Scotland 4 8. France 6 9. Lebanon 18 10. PNG 16 11. Ireland 8 12. Wales 9 13. Italy 12 14. USA 10 15. Jamaica 13 16. Serbia 14 17. Canada 15 18. Malta 17 19. Russia 19 20. Belgium 20 21. Spain 21 22. Norway 22 23. Greece 23 24. Philippines 34 25. Ukraine 25 26. Czech Republic 26 27. Netherlands 27 28. Germany 28 29. Hungary 29 30. Cook Islands 24 31. Sweden 30 32. Chile 37 33. Niue 31 34. Denmark 32 35. South Africa 33 36. Vanuatu 35 37. El Salvador 39 38. Thailand 36 39. Argentina – 40. Colombia – 41. Japan – 42. Solomon Islands 38 43. Brazil – 44. Uruguay 40 45. Hong Kong – 46. Bulgaria 41 47. Latvia 42 48. Morocco 43
Rating points are awarded for all sanctioned internationals over the previous five (5) years and are calculated by an independent company of sports data experts. A higher weighting is given to the most recent internationals.
After seven years as an appointed director, Jennifer Rolfe is stepping down from the New Zealand Rugby League Board. She will be replaced by experienced director, Australian based Andrew Fraser. Previously Head of Strategy and Investment at the NRL, Fraser is currently a director of the Rugby League World Cup.
Fraser serves as a director on a diverse range of other bodies, including Sunsuper a top ten Australian superannuation fund, where he is Chairman of the Investment Committee. His other current directorships include the Major Projects Advisory Board of the Whitsunday Regional Council and the Hear and Say Centre. He is an independent member of Griffith University’s Finance, Risk and Resources Committee and joined the University Council in November 2017. Fraser has served as a Commissioner on the board of the Australian Sports Commission, was an elected member of the Queensland Government and served as a Minister in a range of portfolios including Sport, Local Government, Economic Development, Trade and the Treasury.
A graduate of Griffith University, he has degrees in Commerce and Law with First Class Honours and received the University Medal.
Reon Edwards, chairman of the NZRL Board said, ”Jen has been an outstanding contributor to our Board. Her knowledge and passion for communications and marketing has provided support for our commercial team since she started in 2011. We wish her every success.”
Of Fraser’s appointment Edwards said “We are extremely fortunate to be able to fill the vacancy with someone who brings a huge amount of knowledge and passion for the game to the board table.
“In addition to Andrew’s years of involvement through the NRL, he also provides experience in governance, political savvy and an understanding of law and commerce.”
Fraser said, “Rugby League is a force for good – it does so many great things that often go unseen and unheard in communities.
“I am eager to give back to the game and the game in New Zealand is well placed to grow – on the field and off the field.”
Rolfe will complete her duties at the last board meeting of the year on December 6, Fraser’s appointment will take effect on December 7.
New Zealand Rugby League Board: Reon Edwards (Chair), Hugh Martyn (Vice-Chair), Elizabeth Richards, John Bishop, Tawera Nikau, Bill McEntee, Andrew Fraser
A field goal on the stroke of fulltime from Australian, Caitlyn Moran sealed the game for the Jillaroos after holding off a late surge from a determined Kiwi ferns outfit.
Moran also bagged a double in the match which laid the platform for the Jillaroos to build a lead after spending much of the first half fending off New Zealand attacks.
New Zealand try scoring machine, Honey Hireme, also scored two tries but it wasn’t enough as the Jillaroos won their second straight Women’s World Cup.
As soon as play got underway, the Ferns flexed their muscles and put the Jillaroos on the back foot by sending their powerful forwards up the middle to gain some early momentum.
But despite controlling the opening minutes of the game, some creative play from the Jillaroos resulted in the first points of the final.
With two defenders on her back, Renae Kunst managed to get an offload to fullback Nakia Davis-Welsh who flew downfield before drawing the Kiwi fullback and finding Isabelle Kelly unmarked who crossed over for a brilliant team try.
Caitlyn Moran made no mistakes adding the extras to give Australia an early 6-0 lead just eight minutes into the match.
But New Zealand wouldn’t stay behind for long thanks to smart play from stand-off Raecene McGregor, then turning to Honey Hireme, who got her first of the day to level the scores just four minutes later.
Now with some momentum behind them, the Ferns started to regain control of the match with some quick line speed preventing the Jillaroos from moving up the field.
And as the clock ticked into the back end of the first half, Hireme once again gave New Zealand the upper hand after she forced her way over for her second try of the day.
Despite dominating for most of the first half, New Zealand only held onto a slim 10-6 advantage before Australia finally broke through on the verge of halftime.
As both teams took the field for the final 40 minutes of the 2017 Rugby League Women’s World Cup, the match was still well and truly anyone’s for the taking.
And it was the Jillaroos who took control of the match following play getting underway, landing a swift double blow within four minutes of each other to gain a firm grasp on the game.
The first came from an Ali Brigginshaw grubber kick which deflected off a New Zealand defender, bouncing up perfectly for Kelly who was in pursuit and put the ball down under the posts for her second try.
Then just four minutes later, forward Elianna Walton forced her way over next to the posts to give Australia a 22-10 lead with a little over 20 minutes yet to play.
But New Zealand were far from done and after finally making their way back down the right end of the field, New Zealand got themselves back into the match.
The Ferns moved the ball through the hands using quick passes and offloads to break up the Australian defence before Raecene McGregor finally found a way over the try line.
As the game moved into the final 10 minutes and with just one converted try the difference, the energy of both teams lifted as they could sense a World Cup victory was just one play away.
And that play would come from two-try hero, Caitlyn Moran, who slotted a field goal from 15 meters out on the stroke of full time to secure a second straight Rugby League Women’s World Cup for Australia, finishing champions 23-16.
James Coman | @JamesComan1 Rugby League World Cup 2017 Reporter
A review of the 2017 Rugby League World Cup campaign has commenced this week with the appointment of an independent panel.
Review chair Tim Castle – an international sports barrister and adjudicator, and elite player manager; together with Raelene Castle (no relation) – the former Chief Executive of Netball New Zealand and the NRL Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs; will consider the performance of the players and team management, and will interview an informed and representative group of individuals connected with this year’s World Cup campaign.
“We were all disappointed with the Kiwis’ performance and need to understand what went wrong,” said NZRL chairman Reon Edwards.
“A thorough independent review is essential if we’re to get it right for the next World Cup.”
He said consideration of the current coaching eligibility rule, whereby the national coach must be a New Zealander would be but one of the matters reviewed by the panel.
Panel chair, Tim Castle said he and co-panellist Raelene Castle felt very privileged to undertake the independent review.
“We recognise the sport at all levels is integral to many communities around the country, and we’re approaching the task with a positive and constructive frame of mind.
“Raelene and I will be rigorous and independent with our review, our findings and our recommendations.”
Reon Edwards confirmed the independent panel’s findings would be released in February / March along with the four-year Strategic Plan that the NZRL has been working on for the past 8 months.
“The review will input into the NZRL’s Strategic Plan, which is well evolved and has been focusing on the delivery of better outcomes for the game.
“The plan establishes our strategic direction – setting out significant steps to build on and improve the game in New Zealand, from a core focus at a grassroots level through to our high-performance programmes and the Kiwis.”
While the plan is close to being finalised, Edwards said the NZRL Board has deliberately postponed its release until the conclusion of the panel’s review.
“Spending another couple of months on the review will allow us to set the best plan possible for the next four years.
“We completely understand how the New Zealand League community, including players and coaches, feel about this World Cup performance by our Kiwis team.
“We all want our team to be successful and we need to ensure we do and have everything we need to achieve what we all desperately want – to be best in the world.”
Sport NZ CEO Peter Miskimmin said: “Sport NZ welcomes the review and credits New Zealand Rugby League for the process they are undertaking and the calibre of experts it has assembled.
“The campaign was disappointing and it’s important the team and sport rebound. We want the Kiwis to be winning, and through their success be inspiring young people to play the game and play it well.
“Tim and Raelene bring a wealth of expertise and give the review the best possible chance of achieving these outcomes.” – ENDS
REVIEW PANEL TERMS OF REFERENCE – PURPOSE
To review the Kiwis campaign at RLWC17 with the primary objective to capture material learnings, both positive and negative, from the campaign and provide recommendations to the Board that will inform: • planning and preparation for future campaigns, and • the development of NZRL’s High Performance strategy 2018-2021.
REVIEW PANEL TERMS OF REFERENCE – SCOPE
The NZRL’s Kiwis campaign preparation and performance for RLWC17 including, but not limited to, the following: • preparations and planning for RLWC17; • resources committed to the campaign both human & financial; • leadership and capability; • coach selection policy; • player selection policies; • management of player culture and welfare; • tournament logistics; • game plans, implementation and evaluation; • RLIF and RLWC17 local organising committee rules and regulations.
TIM CASTLE BACKGROUND An international sports barrister and adjudicator, and elite player manager; Tim Castle brings valuable insight into high performance sport issues, which are the subject of the NZRL panel’s review. For more than a decade he has managed numerous professional elite athletes including the former All Blacks the late Jerry Collins, Keven Mealamu, Rodney So’oialo, and Neemia Tialata. He also manages current Silver Ferns captain Katrina Grant and in New Zealand Olympic athlete Nick Willis. With regards to rugby league, in 2010 Tim was brought in by Sport New Zealand as an independent mediator to successfully facilitate the serious organisational re- structuring dispute between the NZRL and Auckland Rugby League. Tim’s extensive involvement in sports leadership includes being the first Vice President (the effective chair) of the New Zealand Olympic Committee, board member of the New Zealand Sports Foundation, New Zealand’s inaugural representative on the International Cricket Council Corruption Commission, and was an inaugural appointee to the New Zealand Sports Tribunal – a position held for eight years, Since 1991 Tim has been an appointee to the international Court of Arbitration for Sport (the first from New Zealand, Australia and Oceania), which remains the world’s principal sports disputes Tribunal; and has presided over cases involving doping, match fixing and international athlete eligibility disputes.
RAELENE CASTLE BACKGROUND Raelene is the former Chief Executive of Netball New Zealand and most recently was Chief Executive of the NRL’s Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. She was a Board Member of the International Netball Federation and the Chair of the NRL CEO group. Raelene has previously worked in the marketing, sales, sponsorship and communications areas for a number of leading New Zealand companies including Telecom, BNZ, Southern Cross Healthcare and Fuji Xerox. Recognised with a Sir Peter Blake Emerging Leader Award in 2011, Raelene was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in 2015.
Kiwi Ferns forward Teuila Fotu-Moala admits feeling pressure to deliver in Saturday’s Rugby League World Cup final after being crowned player of the tournament.
Fotu-Moala beat Ferns teammate Honey Hireme and Jillaroos star Ali Brigginshaw following an impressive campaign where she was among the leaders in metres and line break assists.
“Overwhelmed, I was speechless when I heard my name,” she said on Wednesday.
“When they started talking about my stats. I didn’t realise my stats were pretty decent for the tournament. I’m still quite speechless, have no words yet.
“I don’t think it has kicked in yet but it is a massive World Cup and it’s quite competitive this time around. I’m real honoured to say the least.”
While humbled, Fotu-Moala, who turned 24 on Wednesday, said she had begun to feel the weight of expectation that came with recognition.
It was true she’d once been dubbed ‘The Jukebox’ by Kangaroos great Darren Lockyer, she said. The name was given because the hits keep coming from Fotu-Moala.
“I loved Darren Lockyer. He’s one of my favourites and for him to give me a nickname, that’s real cool. I’ll take it, but there’s another pressure for hitting out. If it happens, it happens. I don’t want people expecting hits.
“It puts a bit of pressure on me, there’ll be more eyes on me. (People will say) ‘Oh okay, she’s the fearless woman, let’s see what she’s got’, for those who haven’t been following.
“I just have to prove that I’ve worked hard to get here where I am.”
Fotu-Moala said she also had to overcome the difficulty of initially being discouraged by her family to pursue her rugby league dream.
“From the start of my journey, they haven’t been that supportive only because it wasn’t feminine to be out of the house training at night,” she said.
“Later on as I made the Kiwis, they only started being supportive and giving me a push and pushing me to do the best I could.
“I wasn’t allowed to play Sundays or because I was a girl my family would stop me from playing but I kept sneaking out of the house on Sundays and just going anyway.
“It was just those little traditional things they wanted me to be real traditional. When they saw I was doing well, then they just let it go because they got tired of saying no.”
Story care of stuff.co.nz.
New Zealand will take part in their fifth consecutive Rugby League Women’s World Cup Final after overcoming England Women’s 52 – 4 at Cronulla Stadium.
New Zealand overcame a poor start in the first half completing just 35 percent of their sets to record seven tries in the second half to blow England off the park and become the first team to qualify for the Final on Saturday.
A hat-trick to Honey Hireme and a double to Krystal Murray helped the Ferns cause, while forwards Teuila Fotu-Moala and Lilieta Maumau both notched up over 200 running meters throughout the match.
England started the match with their backs against the wall after they knocked the ball on from the kick off gifting New Zealand with a great early attacking chance.
And true to their class, the Kiwi Ferns wasted no time finding a way through England’s defence, scoring in the second minute of the match after executing a slick backline move through the hands for Maitua Feterika, who crashed over the line for the opening points of the game.
Then just four minutes later, the Ferns found themselves in attacking range once again and after a full set on the English line, the three-time champions opted to run the ball on the fifth for Shontelle Woodman, who ran through a gaping hole in England’s defence for their second try after just six minutes.
Following two unsuccessful conversions, the score line remained at 8-0 as things started to look ominous for the lacklustre English side.
But after completing just 35% of their sets in the opening 40-minutes, the Ferns gave the English time to slowly find their groove and work their way back into the match.
And in the 21st minute, England found the breakthrough after halfback, Kirsty Moroney, put a beautiful cross-field kick into the Ferns in goal, bouncing favourably for Tara-Jane Stanley who quickly got the ball down for England’s first points.
England’s try would be the last points of the first half as unforced errors slowed the momentum of both sides before the break for New Zealand to walk off the field with a 14-4 advantage.
Looking to rebuild their uncharacteristically low completion rate, the Ferns started the second half much the same as the first, scoring early points to immediately put England on the back foot.
Winger, Honey Hireme, crossed over for the first of her three tries of the day after just six minutes of the second half, finding enough space down the side-line to plant the ball down as New Zealand started to look dangerous.
Following Hireme’s four-pointer, New Zealand started to show why they haven’t missed a World Cup final since the inception of the tournament in 2000.
Improving their completion rate from 35 percent to 68 percent, the Ferns ran in seven tries in the second half thanks to a second-half hat-trick from Hireme to streak away with the match and secure a spot in their fifth consecutive Rugby League Women’s World Cup.
Kiwi Ferns 52 (Feterika, Woodman, Murray 2, Hireme 3, Fotu-Moala, Peters, Maumau, Mariu tries; Nati 4 penalty goals) England 4
Kiwi Ferns Coach Tony Benson has named his side for tomorrow’s Women’s Rugby League World Cup semi-final against England at 1.45pm (AEDT).
Top try-scorer of the tournament Honey Hireme who pocketed six tries against the Cook Islands, will start on the left wing alongside Captain Laura Mariu who slots back in as lock.
While New Zealand have been fairly dominant in the pool stages, Benson is aware Sunday’s semi-final encounter against England will be no easy feat.
“They’re an incredibly physical side that will come at us hard so it’s our job to be ready for that,”
“We’ve identified a number of areas to work on that will improve our performance, and execution of those tweaks will be key for us,” he said.
A win for the Kiwi Ferns on Sunday would see them play the winner of the Australia v Canada clash taking place at 4pm AEDT following the first semi-final at Southern Cross Stadium, Sydney.
#Earnthefern #WRLWC2017
Semi-Final Kiwi Ferns v England November 26, 1.45pm (AEDT) Southern Cross Group Stadium, Sydney
1 – Apii Nicholls-Pualau 2 – Atawhai Tupaea 3 – Maitua Feterika 4 – Shontelle Woodman 5 – Honey Hireme 6 – Georgia Hale 7 – Kimiora Nati 8 – Aieshaleigh Smalley 9 – Krystal Rota 10 – Lilieta Maumau 11- Teuila Fotu-Moala 12 – Hilda Peters 13 – Laura Mariu (Captain) 14 – Nita Maynard 15 – Annetta-Claudia Nuuausala 16 – Krystal Murray 17 – Ngatokotoru Arakua 18 – Amber Kani 19 – Kahurangi Peters
Despite the Ferns crossing for two tries in the opening ten minutes, the Orchids were able to hold out an array of attacking raids to keep the score to just 8-0 at half-time.
Their efforts were to no avail, however, as the Ferns put together a clinical second half with Annetta-Claudia Nuuausala and Maitua Feterika inspiring the hard-fought win.
Luisa Gago gave New Zealand the early buffer as she zig-zagged her way through multiple Orchids defenders to sneak her way over the try-line.
It wasn’t long before they extended their lead after fullback Raecene McGregor crashed her way over for their second unanswered try.
Papua New Guinea showed their resilience with some committed goal-line defence holding out a third Ferns try, but their success didn’t resonate with the ball-in-hand with New Zealand holding them out at the opposing end.
Both teams were fighting valiantly in a third-hitting contest that saw some brutally absorbing tackles on either side of the ball, and New Zealand looked to have finally made a breakthrough with Maitua Feterika slicing through but eventually knocked the ball forward just metres out from the try line.
Just moments later, a scorching kick at the opposing end from PNG halfback Amelia Kuk ricocheted off the post and planted down by the scrambling Orchids attackers, but the video referee ruled there was a knock-on in the process of scoring.
As their only chance went begging, they were able to maintain the 8-point deficit at half-time despite conceding two tries in the opening ten minutes of play.
The Ferns began the first-half with some great lead-up play from McGregor and Georgia Hale as they broke the line to earn their side great field position, but the scrambling PNG defence was able to hold out the raid.
New Zealand thought they had grabbed their much-needed just a few tackles later after a classy backline movement saw Feterika crash over in the right-hand corner, but some desperate defence from Male Mar stripped the ball in the process of scoring.
Despite their gallant efforts, they couldn’t stop winger Hilda Peters scoring in the opposite corner after a swift right-to-left shift.
Ngatokotoru Arakua was unable to convert from the sideline as the Ferns held onto a handy 12-0 lead.
With a wave of momentum behind them, the Ferns were able to strike shortly after with centre Amber Kani crossing the line before Fetrika scored their fifth unanswered try in similar fashion just two minutes later.
Although conceding three tries within a relentless 15 minute period, PNG clawed their way back with Joan Kuman going close to scoring but was forced into touch by the gutsy Ferns defence.
Their defensive efforts were rewarded with a four-pointer at the opposite end after some barnstorming runs through the middle-third gave them valuable field position, before going through the hands to give Atawhai Tupaea open space and give them a 26-point lead with just over 20 minutes remaining.
Brimming with confidence, the Ferns weren’t afraid to throw the ball around and they found themselves scoring a contender for try of the tournament, with a series of offloads eventually leading to Racquel Anderson crossing for their seventh try of the tournament.
Anderson was unable to convert her own try as the Ferns ran away with a comfortable 30-0 lead with 15 minutes remaining in the contest.
Annetta Nuuausala and Amber Kani put the icing on the cake in the closing stages with tries of their own to finish off a 38-0 win.
Kiwi Ferns play England in their semi-final at 1.45pm AEDT on Sunday November 26- Southern Cross Stadium, Sydney
Andre Cupido | @AndreCupido10 Rugby League World Cup 2017 Reporter
Kiwi Fern stand-off, Georgia Hale will captain her team for the first time in New Zealand’s third and final pool match of the Women’s Rugby League World Cup against PNG tomorrow at 6.30pm (AEDT).
While this is Hale’s first Rugby League World Cup, the PNG match-up will be her fifth international Test having played at the 2015, 2016 and 2017 ANZAC Tests.
Aieshaleigh Smalley also joins Hale as the starting prop for her first international Test in the black jersey. She credits the support of her Otahuhu Leopards team and family in Auckland for being able to represent her country in the sport she loves.
“I’m so grateful to be where I am today, I just cannot wait to run out on the field in front of my family and friends who have flown across to Sydney to support me,”
“My three-year-old son Kayson will also be there to cheer me on so I can’t wait to make him proud,” she says.
If the Kiwi Ferns win their game against PNG tomorrow, they will finish top of Pool B and will play their semi-final against the team ranked second in Pool A on Sunday November 26.
#Earnthefern #TeIwiKiwi
Kiwi Ferns v PNG November 22, 6.30pm (AEDT) Southern Cross Group Stadium, Sydney
1 – Raecene McGregor 2 – Atawhai Tupaea 3 – Maitua Feterika 4 – Amber Kani 5 – Hilda Peters 6 – Georgia Hale (Captain) 7 – Racquel Anderson 8 – Aieshaleigh Smalley * 9 – Krystal Rota 10 – Kahurangi Peters 11 – Teuila Fotu-Moala 12 – Louisa Gago 13 – Sharlene Atai 14 – Nita Maynard 15 – Annetta-Claudia Nuuausala 16 – Bunty Kuruwaka-Crowe 19 – Lilieta Maumau
21 – Ngatokotoru Arakua 22 – Apii Nicholls-Pualau
*International debut
Stuff.co.nz By Marvin France
When Kiwi Ferns coach Tony Benson was forced to find a new captain for the World Cup, he did not need long to settle on a replacement.
There are not too many players who know more about the tournament than Laura Mariu.
The 36-year-old loose forward has taken part in all five Women’s Rugby League World Cups dating back to its inception in 2000, a remarkable feat of longevity that has seen her walk away with three winner’s medals.
Surprisingly, though, the current event in Australia is her first as captain. And after New Zealand’s run of dominance was broken by the Jillaroos four years ago, what better way to cap off a special career than by leading the Kiwi Ferns back to the top.
“It’s very humbling. It’s always a privilege to represent your country but to lead the team to the World Cup is a huge honour,” Mariu told Stuff.
“I started in 2000, made the side then and haven’t looked back. I found a love for this game, I played other sports as well but I’ve become really passionate about rugby league.”
Forget about getting paid. It’s that sort of passion that kept Mariu and her teammates turning up year after year, even when they had to pay for the right to represent their nation on the world stage.
There is still a long way to go before the elite women’s players receive the same treatment as the men. But Mariu says the difference in support now compared to the early days is night and day.
“At the beginning it was marae styles and now we’re at the Novotel, which is huge and we’re truly grateful for everything the NZRL have been doing for us,” she said.
“They’re paying for hotels and for us to fly over to Australia. In the past we’ve had to pay levy fees just to represent our country. With the game evolving and the support from the NZRL, Rugby League World Cup and even the NRL, it’s made a huge difference for the game.
“It’s good to know they can see a future for the women’s game,” Mariu added. “There was a time when it seemed like there was nothing really happening but now there’s new opportunities and the exposure we’re gaining, hopefully it will draw new players and grow the game.”
Mariu, who had captained the side once previously, was handed the role when fullback Sarina Fiso became unavailable.
And with all but four of the 24-strong squad tasting their first World Cup, Benson was fortunate enough to be able to call on a player of her experience.
“It’s an easy one with Laura because she’s consistent, she’s highly likely to be on the field most of the time and we have a good relationship,” the coach said.
“When you’re touring you need to know everything that’s going on, who is happy and not and what works and doesn’t work in her mind. She has a big say in pretty much everything.”
They may be light on experience but Mariu is excited by the talent in the squad and the way they have gelled off the field.
The Kiwi Ferns made a nervous start during Thursday’s opening game against Canada before finding their groove in the second half to record a 50-4 victory.
They play their second pool game against the Cook Islands on Sunday and Mariu is confident they will continue to improve as they work towards a place in the final on December 2.
“If we stick to the basics and do them well, all good things can come from that,” the skipper said.
“It’s about keeping our unit tight, keeping the culture strong and knowing that there’s no individuals out there. It’s a team effort.”
The Ferns ran in 14 tries in a near-perfect performance with speedster Honey Hireme crossing for six tries in a clinical display of rugby league.
Halfback Kimiora Nati put in another strong showing as she led her team around with her pin-point kicking game and combined strongly with halves partner Raecene McGregor, who crossed for two tries of her own.
Cook Islands enjoyed a promising opening stanza with their threatening attacking raids causing havoc for the New Zealand defence, but it was the Ferns who broke the deadlock with a right-to-left shift at the opposing end which gave Hireme the first try of the contest.
Hireme found open space in the ensuing set with a burst down the left-hand touchline, and a second try was looming for New Zealand but winger Atawhai Tupea couldn’t maintain possession in the opposite corner.
While the Cooks Islands were desperately searching for a quick reprieve, the Ferns were brimming with confidence and rampaging front-rower Lilieta Maumau extended their lead after she brushed off a host of defenders on her way to the try-line.
Kimiora Nati converted from in-front to take a 10-0 stranglehold after 20 minutes.
New Zealand continued their dominance with their forwards laying a strong platform through the middle-third, and Shontelle Woodman took full advantage as she added her name to the scoresheet just moments later.
Nita Maynard was providing significant impact off the bench with some darting runs out of dummy-half, and a break through the middle was finished with a quick play-the-ball for fellow interchange player Krystal Murray, who crossed for their fourth try.
Hireme and Woodman were causing trouble for the Cook Islands right-edge defence as they combined for three tries within a relentless five minute period, with Hireme grabbing her hat-trick courtesy of a some brilliant inside play from Woodman.
Murray was denied a second try in the closing stages of the first-half, but it made little difference as the Ferns dominated proceedings to take a 38-0 lead at the break.
New Zealand five-eighth Raecene McGregor split the defence in the early exchanges of the second-half and was brought down just metres out from the try-line, with Hireme capitalising on the broken defence and crossing for her fourth try of the game.
Hireme eventually grabbed her fifth try after being previously denied by the video referee with Nati unable to convert as the Ferns took a 48-0 lead after 50 minutes.
Fullback Apii Nicholls-Paulau was putting in another stellar performance with some evasive runs and tireless efforts from the back, and soon turned provider fro McGregor with a brilliant offload that put the five-eighth over from close range.
McGregor raced away for her second try off the following set before Maynard snuck her way over the try-line just five minutes later.
The Cook Islands were valiant despite trailing on the scoreboard as they continued to fight hard for valuable field position and were frantically scrambling in defence, but the left-side attack of the Ferns couldn’t be stopped as Hireme sprinted away for her eighth try of the tournament.
Murray scored her second try with a bulldozing run from 30 metres in the closing stages out before her team backed it up with some committed goal-line defence to hold out the Cook Islands and finish with a dominant 76-0 victory.
New Zealand 76 (Hireme 6, McGregor 2, Woodman 2, Murray 2, Maumau,, Maynard tries; Nati 10 goals) def. Cook Islands 0
Three debutants have been named in Kiwi Ferns Coach Tony Benson’s starting line-up to take on Cook Islands in New Zealand’s second Women’s Rugby League World Cup game tomorrow at 4pm (AEDT).
While Nicholls-Pualau, New Zealand’s stand-out player against Canada will remain in fullback, Racquel Anderson, Louisa Gago and Australian-based Kiwi Raecene McGregor will play their first international Test.
Hailing from Waikato, Racquel Anderson will reap the benefits of making the three hour round trip to each training in the lead up to the World Cup.
“I’m rearing to get out on that field and put all those hard yards spent travelling and training hard into practice,”
“I know when I pull on that black jersey for my first time I’ll be thinking of the little league community that we have back in Tokoroa and hopefully my story will empower more young women to get out there and play the game we all love,” she said.
Kiwi Ferns v Cook Islands November 19, 4pm (AEDT) Southern Cross Group Stadium, Sydney
1 – Apii Nicholls-Pualau 2 – Atawhai Tupaea 3 – Amber Kani 4 – Shontelle Woodman 5 – Honey Hireme 6 – Raecene McGregor * 7 – Kimiora Nati 8 – Lilieta Maumau 9 – Racquel Anderson * 10 – Kahurangi Peters 20- Hilda Peters 12 – Louisa Gago * 13 – Laura Mariu (Captain) 14 – Nita Maynard 15- Krystal Murray 16 – Ngatokotoru Arakua 17 – Bunty Kuruwaka-Crowe 19 – Aieshaleigh Smalley * 22- Annetta-Claudia Nuuausala
Fullback Apii Nicholls-Pualau starred for the Ferns as she continued to cause havoc with the ball in-hand, while halfback Kimiora Nati was a shining light with a clinical performance.
The Kiwis got off to the perfect start with winger Honey Hireme crossing for the first try of the tournament courtesy of some nice lead-up play from Nicholls-Pualau.
Their lead was short lived, however, as they were unable to withstand the pressure from Canada with back-rower Megan Pakulis barging her way over from dummy-half.
The Ferns regained the lead just moments later with speedster Atawhai Tupaea streaking down the right-hand touchline for their second try of the contest.
Kimiora Nati converted to take a handy 10-4 advantage after 15 minutes.
The Kiwis continued to force an array of handling errors with some brutally absorbing tackles but were unable to extend their lead with some costly mistakes of their own.
Despite the valiant efforts of Canada to level the scores, Ferns centre Shontelle Woodman eventually found a breakthrough after palming off a host of defenders before passing inside to Hireme for her second try of the contest.
Nati polished off a dominant first-half performance with her second conversion as the Ferns went into half-time with a 16-4 lead.
New Zealand earned an attacking raid off the first-set thanks to some barnstorming runs from their forwards, and Hireme looked to have completed her hat-trick only to knock the ball on as she dived in the left-hand corner.
Teuila Fotu-Moala continued her dominance as she brushed off defenders to burst through the middle-third, and their momentum couldn’t be stopped as Lilieta Maumau added her name to the scoresheet.
Brimming with confidence, the Ferns soon found themselves on the attack again with Krystal Murray providing significant impact off the bench with a try of her own.
Nati continued her strong day with the boot as she converted to take a comfortable 28-4 lead after 55 minutes.
Fotu-Moala was rewarded for her determined efforts with a four-pointer before Nicholls-Pualau scored their fourth try within a relentless 11 minute period.
Fotu-Moala and Mama both grabbed their second tries in the closing stages to round off a dominant 50-4 victory.
New Zealand 50 (Hireme 2, Fotu-Moala 2, Maumau 2, Tupaea, Murray, Nicholls-Pualau tries; Nati 7 goals) Canada 4 (Pakulias try)
Kiwi Ferns Coach Tony Benson has named his side for New Zealand’s first Women’s Rugby League World Cup game against Canada tomorrow at 1.45pm (AEDT).
In what will be her fifth Rugby League World Cup, Laura Mariu will captain the Kiwi Ferns when they run out at Southern Cross Group Stadium in Sydney tomorrow afternoon. Experienced veterans Sharlene Atai and Honey Hireme will start in the second row and left wing positions respectively.
Nicholls-Pualau will make her international debut starting at fullback with Australian-based and Gisborne-born Nita Maynard set to make her debut off the bench.
“To play in that black jersey is the highest honour and I’m so privileged to be named in the starting line-up,”
“I know I’ve got my work cut out for me but I’m ready to get out there and give it my all,” Nicholls-Pualau says.
For Maynard, being one of the first Australian-based Kiwis to pull on the Kiwi Ferns jersey is a dream come true.
“Raecene and I were lucky enough to get the opportunity to trial and when we both got the call up into that final Kiwi Ferns World Cup squad the feeling was indescribable,”
“It makes it even more special that I’ll be playing my first international Test at my home stadium where I play with the Cronulla Sharks,” she said.
Coach Tony Benson says he is happy with the blend of youth and experience in his team to take on Canada.
“I’m excited that we can finally put all the hard work and sacrifices to good use on the field and I’m confident in the team that will run out tomorrow,” he says.
Kiwi Ferns v Canada November 16, 1.45pm (AEDT) Southern Cross Group Stadium, Sydney
1- Apii Nicholls-Pualau* 2- Atawhai Tupaea 3- Maitua Feterika 4- Shontelle Woodman 5- Honey Hireme 6- Georgia Hale (Vice Captain) 7- Kimiora Nati 8- Lilieta Maumau 9- Krystal Rota 10- Bunty Kuruwaka-Crowe 11- Sharlene Atai 12- Teuila Fotu-Moala 13- Laura Mariu (Captain) 14- Nita Maynard* 15- Krystal Murray 16- Ngatokotoru Arakua 17- Amber Kani 18- Louisa Gago 19- Kahurangi Peters
The atmosphere was tense when the Kiwis marched their haka but when the full-time siren rung, history had been made.
The supporters sung louder, the subs danced on the sideline, the scoreboard read: Tonga 28, New Zealand 22 and Tonga celebrated their first ever victory over the Kiwis – and the first victory by a tier two rugby league nation over a tier one opponent.
The stadium shook with the noise of Tongan hymns and cheering but the red wasn’t as prevalent as it was last week and there were plenty of black jerseys chanting “Kiwis” in reply.
Tonga forward Sio Siua Taukeiaho dedicated the historic to win to his country’s supporters.
“It’s great to see, it’s great to see all the Tonga fans who have come out from Auckland and all over New Zealand just to support our little nation.
“Seeing them out there tonight, it was great for us to put on a performance like we just did and come away for the win. All our hard work goes towards them for all of the support they have given us. It was just awesome to have them there supporting us
In a losing side, Kiwis backrower Simon Mannering was gracious.
“I can walk off that field with a smile on my face, just really happy for rugby league in general,” he said.
“I’m very much disappointed, but it was a real great spectacle for rugby league, I’ve played for a number of years and that’s probably the best crowd I’ve ever played in front of.”
Mannering said that Tonga played with a lot of energy and capitalised on the Kiwis’ mistakes well.
“We definitely could have handled the situation better, all of us, from younger guys to older guys,” he said.
“But with losses, the best thing you can do is make sure you learn from them.
“I always thought how good it would be for a game where these second tier nations beat these top tier nations and unfortunately that was us today.”
New Zealand Kiwis 22 (Tuivasa-Sheck (2), Watene Zelezniak, Rapana tries; Johnson 3 goals) Tonga 28 (Fusitu’a (3), Lolohea, Hopate tries; Taukeiaho penalty, 2 goals, Lolohea 1 goal). Half-time: New Zealand Kiwis 16 led Tonga 2. Crowd:24,105
Jesse King Rugby League World Cup 2017 Contributor
What’s the situation? The board of Wellington Rugby League has been busy developing its strategic plan aimed at growing Rugby League in the greater Wellington region. We have great relationships with our key stakeholders and are about to renew our MOU with Sport Wellington. It’s a great time to join us as our new General Manager who will work with the board and staff to move the game forward in leaps and bounds, implementing our new strategy and driving the success train forward. The strategy is in place, we know what we want to achieve; you’ll be joining us to work out exactly how we achieve it, implement it and smash it!
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Kiwis Coach David Kidwell has brought back nearly one hundred Tests of experience for Saturday’s Rugby League World Cup clash against Tonga in Hamilton.
After sitting out the Kiwis 74-6 victory over Scotland, veterans Thomas Leuluai returns to the number 9 jersey while Simon Mannering slots in at 11.
Jordan Rapana will start on the right wing, while Dallin Watene-Zelezniak gets his first ever chance to play in front of his home crowd, partnering with club team mate Dean Whare on the left wing and centre respectively.
Kodi Nikorima will join Shaun Johnson in the halves with Te Maire Martin named in 19.
Isaac Liu is the only change to the bench, which continues to look to Russell Packer, Nelson Asofa-Solomona and Danny Levi to add a further spark during the match.
NEW ZEALAND v TONGA WAIKATO STADIUM, HAMILTON 11 NOVEMBER 2017
KIWI NO. JERSEY NO. NAME TEST APPEARANCES 779 1 ROGER TUIVASA-SHECK 14 794 2 DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK 4 776 3 DEAN WHARE 17 803 4 BRAD TAKAIRANGI 2 798 5 JORDAN RAPANA 6 793 6 KODI NIKORIMA 6 774 7 SHAUN JOHNSON 23 785 8 MARTIN TAUPAU 18 704 9 THOMAS LEULUAI 39 755 10 JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES 21 731 11 SIMON MANNERING 43 800 12 JOSEPH TAPINE 4 732 13 ADAM BLAIR 43 804 14 NELSON ASOFA-SOLOMONA 2 768 15 RUSSELL PACKER 5 805 16 ISAAC LIU 1 806 17 DANNY LEVI 2 796 18 KENNY BROMWICH 3 802 19 TE MAIRE MARTIN 2 770 20 ELIJAH TAYLOR 11 781 21 PETA HIKU 10
Kiwi Ferns overcome a strong Maori Ferns side in their World Cup warm-up match in Hamilton coming out on top, 32-12.
The win was extra special for local Kiwi Ferns, Honey Hireme and Shontelle Woodman, both scoring in front of a home crowd filled with family and friends.
Young Kiwi Ferns and debutantes were able to get a taste for the World Cup atmosphere on home soil, before heading to Sydney for the Women’s Rugby League World Cup where they will play their three pool matches https://nzrl.co.nz/rlwc2017-womens-draw/.
Kiwi Ferns Captain Laura Mariu reflects on the win in Waikato:
Kiwi Ferns 32 (Honey Hireme 2, Krystal Murray, Maitua Feterika 2, Shontelle Woodman, Apii Nicholls-Pualau tries; Kimiora Nati 2 goals) Maori Ferns 12 (Sharnita Woodman, Te Aroha Hapuku tries; Jonsal Tautari penalty & goal)
The Kiwis enjoyed a beautiful week of summer in Christchurch and topped it off with a comprehensive win over the Scots. The conditions were as far from their previous encounter during the 2016 Four Nations as they could have been. The sun was shining, the ground was in excellent condition and the home fans were loud and proud.
New Zealand and Tonga will battle it out for top spot in Pool B and the opportunity to avoid a semi-final clash with Australia.
In what equated to the New Zealand version of Super Saturday, the Kiwis demolished Scotland 74-6 at Christchurch Stadium and then watched as Tonga overcame Samoa 32-18.
The Kiwis and Mate Ma’a are both undefeated and will meet next Saturday at Waikato Stadium in one of the most eagerly awaited matches of the tournament, with the winner set to play the third-placed team from Pool A in the quarter-finals.
That team is now likely to be Lebanon after the Cedars went down to England 29-10 at Sydney Football Stadium in the later match on Saturday night.
Match Report: Shaun Johnson has become New Zealand’s leading Test point-scorer as the Kiwis’ ran riot in a 74-6 rout of Scotland at Christchurch Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The Kiwis amassed a staggering 14 tries as they blew Scotland away in a performance that will leave the rest of the competition weary of having to encounter a side now beaming with confidence.
The three tries to both Peta Hiku and Te Maire Martin will hold prominence at the top of the scoreboard, but it was the clinical, across-the-park showing of the entire team which stood out.
It was a 28-point shut-out in the opening 40 minutes and after the break the free-flowing and ad-lib football continued as New Zealand took advantage of the glorious conditions and dry track.
Johnson scored 22 points from a try and nine goals, adding to his 14-point haul in the 38-8 victory over Samoa, giving him an incredible 36 already for the tournament.
The 27-year-old took his Test points tally to 175 in his 23 Test/World Cup appearances, passing Matthew Ridge’s mark of 168 points.
The Kiwis had 196 total runs compared to Scotland’s 84. A total of 2079 run metres to the Bravehearts’ 636. And 31 offloads to the Scot’s six. It was a complete overpowering.
Right from the start the Kiwis showed they weren’t afraid to throw the ball around and their efforts were rewarded with three tries in the first 15 minutes.
By halftime, their 70 percent share of possession had helped them to half-a-dozen tries – including a Jason Nightingale double – and the lead had extended to 28-0.
New Zealand’s approach was personified by Nelson Asofa-Solomona, who threw a casual flick-pass after bumping off several Scottish defenders to set-up Martin for the Kiwis’ fifth try of the day.
Russell Packer scored his first try in a Kiwis jersey three minutes after the break as New Zealand moved to a 34-0 lead. Joseph Tapine was at the forefront of New Zealand’s destructive forward-pack who simply monstered Scotland out of the game.
Tries to Martin and Hiku – their second each of the day – along with one by Dean Whare propelled the margin out to 52 points midway through the second half, as New Zealand showed-off their depth and potential dominance to the rest of the competition.
Fullback Roger Tuivasa-Sheck picked up the man-of-the-match award and sits just one try short of claiming the Kiwis’ all-time World Cup try-scoring record, which he shares with New Zealand legend Lesley Vainikolo on nine.
The win leaves New Zealand ready to take on Tonga next week in what is being billed as one of the matches of the tournament to played in New Zealand, while Scotland will be icing their wounds after a damaging afternoon.
New Zealand Kiwis 74 (Martin 3, Hiku 3, Nightingale 2, Whare, Johnson, Taylor, Bromwich, Tapine, Packer tries; Johnson 9 goals) Scotland Bravehearts 6 (Thomas try; Addy goal). Half-time: New Zealand Kiwis 28 led Scotland Bravehearts 0. Crowd:12,130
Max McKinney | @MaxMckinney Rugby League World Cup 2017 Correspondent
Shaun Johnson will have a new halves partner for Saturday night’s Rugby League World Cup clash against Scotland with Te Maire Martin to wear the number 6 jersey in just his second Test.
Jason Nightingale, Peta Hiku and Dean Whare all get starts in a reshaped backline while Addin Fonua-Blake is set to earn his first Kiwis cap coming off the bench. Kenny Bromwich is fit and rearing to go in the back row. Elijah Taylor will start at hooker, rounding out the seven changes to the side that beat Samoa 38-8 at Mt Smart.
Nelson Asofa-Solomona, Russell Packer and Danny Levi will again provide spark off the bench.
Thomas Leuluai and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak are 18th and 19th men respectively, Simon Mannering and Jordan Rapana are 20 and 21.
NEW ZEALAND v SCOTLAND CHRISTCHURCH STADIUM 4 NOVEMBER 2017 KIWI NO. JERSEY NO. NAME TEST APPEARANCES 779 1 ROGER TUIVASA-SHECK 13 747 2 JASON NIGHTINGALE 32 776 3 DEAN WHARE 16 803 4 BRAD TAKAIRANGI 1 781 5 PETA HIKU 9 802 6 TE MAIRE MARTIN 1 774 7 SHAUN JOHNSON 22 785 8 MARTIN TAUPAU 17 770 9 ELIJAH TAYLOR 10 755 10 JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES 20 796 11 KENNY BROMWICH 2 800 12 JOSEPH TAPINE 3 732 13 ADAM BLAIR 42 804 14 NELSON ASOFA-SOLOMONA 1 768 15 RUSSELL PACKER 4 * 16 ADDIN FONUA-BLAKE – 806 17 DANNY LEVI 1 704 18 THOMAS LEULUAI 39 794 19 DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK 4 731 20 SIMON MANNERING 43 798 21 JORDAN RAPANA 6
New Zealand scored five unanswered second half tries to win in a physical opening round World Cup clash in Auckland, but the win was soured by the loss of centre Gerard Beale with a leg injury.
Beale was taken from the field on a medicab, suffered a suspected broken leg as he was running in support and fell to the ground without being touched.
His loss is a blow for the new-look Kiwis, who had to overcome an emotion-charged Samoa side, with blood, sweat and tears all shed on the field as both teams wore their jerseys with pride in a tough and hard-hitting match.
Hardman Junior Paulo went from tears to aggression as he sung the national anthem before leading Samoa in a spine tingling pre-game war dance.
Following a blood pumping Haka from New Zealand, the opening minutes of the game featured hard straight running, and brick wall defence.
But it took only five minutes for New Zealand to break through Samoa’s defence and record their opening try of the World Cup.
40 meters out from Samoa’s line, Rapana flicked the ball inside to Shaun Johnson who drew the full-back and returned the ball to a full flight Rapana who ran down the field for New Zealand’s first try.
Following Johnson’s unsuccessful conversion, the match fell into an arm wrestle as the big men of both teams tried to bash their team into good field possession.
But it would be the footwork of New Zealand forward Simon Mannering that created a chance for Shaun Johnson to extend their lead 20 minutes out from half time.
Holding onto a slim 10-0 lead, Samoa needed to strike before half time to get back into the game.
And with just four minutes left to play in the half, Joey Leilua came off his edge and threw a long cut out ball to Ken Maumalo who picked up the bouncing ball and planted it down to bring the score line to 10-4 shortly before half time.
After a scrappy start to the game, completing just over 50% of their sets, New Zealand started to show glimpses of their world-class talent.
Then in the 56th minute, Johnson launched a grubber off his right boot, which sat up perfectly for Kodi Nikorima to give New Zealand a confident 20-4 lead as their attack started to gel.
New Zealand’s momentum was dealt a big blow in the 61st minute when Beale was taken from the field after suffering his injury. Beale was motionless on the field as his teammates were clearly distressed after falling to the ground after a tackle.
Despite the injury, New Zealand continued to rally and put Samoa to the sword as they ran in three unanswered tries in 20 minutes to finish the match.
As the siren sounded to finished the match, Samoa finally broke through New Zealand’s defensive line for a late consolation try, but it meant little as New Zealand finished winners, 38-8.
NZ 38 Jordan Rapana, Shaun Johnson, Brad Takairangi, Kodi Nikorima, Issac Liu, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Nelson Asofa-Solomona tries; Shaun Johnson 5 goals Samoa 8 Ken Maumalo, Joseph Paulo tries
James Coman1 | @JamesComan1 Rugby League Wolrd Cup 2017 Reporter
