University Overpower Vikings

MatchReportThe University Bulls have confirmed their strong early season form with a 50 points to 13 win over a depleted previously unbeaten Vikings side at University Oval. Going to the half-time break holding a narrow 19 – 13 lead the Bulls ran in four unanswered second half tries to take maximum points in the IDRU Builders Club Premiership Round 3 match.

Vikings missing five first graders stayed with the Students for the first half but couldn’t match the Bulls effort in the second stanza. Prop Forward Hemana Wickliffe scored Uni’s first five pointer after four minutes as the Uni forwards clicked straight into their power game dominating the early exchanges camped in Vikings half of the field.

Not to be outdone the Vikings forwards responded in kind taking play deep into Uni territory. Half-back Tom Sawden potted two penalty goals to bring the Blueys back to within a point of the home side.

With the Uni side clearly superior at the set piece scrum they continued to put pressure on an eager Vikings defensive line until big No.8 Amos Leef crossed for his sides’ second try. With the try converted by Don Nepia the students extended their lead to 14 – 6 after twenty minutes.

Shortly after the Blueys responded when their experienced center Andrew Barrett burst clear in a powerful run from deep in his own half. His center partner Adam Robb continued the play to within twenty of the Bulls line. In the next phase of play speedy Fullback Jason Reid cut through the Uni defense to cross and score under the posts. Sawden’s conversion brought the Blueys right back into the match at 14 – 13 to the students. It was an expensive try as Barrett left the field injured and took no further part in the match.