After 5 tough games on the weekend the Akarana Timbers Pakuranga United 7’s side have been crowned Auckland Club Champions for 2018. This is the club’s 2^nd title after winning the inaugural event back in 2010.

In pool play Pakuranga accounted for Mt Wellington 29-12, Eden 26-0 and College Rifles 22-12. This sore them qualify top of the pool and secure a semi-final against top contenders University. In a tough battle between the two best sides on display Pakuranga was down 5 -14 at half time but scorched home by scoring four second half tries to come away with a comprehensive win 31-14 victory.

The final against a large Marist side again turned out to be an epic encounter with Pakuranga down 5-12 at halftime again. This time Marist came out firing after the break and looked to be going the length of the field before inspirational “sweeper” Gerald Van Wyk cut the  runner down just short of the try line, turned over possession and started a counter attack which sore Pakuranga score to level the scores at 12 all. This broke the Marist resolve and Pakuranga quickly added two late tries to run away with victory 22 -12.

“It was an fantastic day for the team, the boys played outstandingly all day and I am rapt for them as winning tournaments is tough to do in the 7’s game” commented Coach Mark Dickison, “For me being a recent player who has moved into coaching I really felt the same emotions I did as a player and came away absolutely knackered at the end of the day, it was a great day for our club!” added Dickison.

The victory qualifies Pakuranga to return to the NZ Club 7’s to compete for the Middlesex Cup to be held at Eden Rugby Club in early 2019 were the team will be looking to add to their first NZ title they won in 2013.

Akarana Timbers Pakuranga United Auckland Club Champions:

Will Rew (Captain)

Ben Lyford

Gerald Van Wyk

Simon Fauoo

Andrew Fauoo

Niu Osika

Quentin Hill

Aula Silipa

Ratu Wye

Sione Ahokovi

Tika Lelenga

Sinele Williams

Michale Van Wyk

Tyler Casey

Head Coach: Mark Dickison

Manager: Iain Leigh

Article added: Friday 09 November 2018