The Pakuranga Black Panthers are on tour, flying the Pakuranga flag in Wellington this weekend in the quarter-finals of the National Under 85kg Club Cup.

After last weekend’s 21-18 win over Morrinsville, the Panthers will play Wellington champions Old Boys University Scallywags in Wellington tomorrow.

After losing the Auckland final earlier this month, Coach Brad Martin said the team are reinvigorated.

“Last week I was most pleased with how we dusted ourselves off after a disappointing loss in the ARU final the week before. We brought the intensity we needed, and the goal line defence was immense.”

The team fly to Wellington tomorrow.

“The boys are very excited for a different game day experience and to play a new team. it’s not often you get flown across the country to play rugby, especially as NZR’s expense!”

Their opposition defeated fellow Wellington club Tawa to advance to this weekend’s quarter finals.

“Much like last week, we don’t know a lot about them but they won their own competition so they’ll be riding a high.

“Their backs seem to be their strength, and they’ve been bolstered by bringing in some of their premier players. We look forward to the challenge.”

Martin said the team hopes the challenges continue.

“We’re very motivated, the win last weekend lifted our spirits back up and we trained really well this week. The hunger is there to get some silverware this year.”

Article added: Friday 25 August 2023