Rising stars show their wares
Junior Crusaders prop Ethan Jones of Christ’s College charges towards the Hurricanes line. Photos Peter Jones
The cream of the First XV crop from the top of the South Island met their counterparts from the lower part of the North Island at Lansdowne Park on Saturday.
The Junior Crusaders group, chosen from players involved in the Miles Toyota Cup competition, took on a similar side from the Hurricanes region in a game of three thirds.
With around 30 players at their disposal, coaches played one team for the first 35 minutes, a different combination for the next period, then chose a combined side for the final stanza, giving all the players a decent opportunity to show their wares.
After the first 35 minutes the Junior Hurricanes led 12-7, however the Crusaders raced ahead 40-26 after 70 minutes and held on to prevail 47-38.
Marlborough Boys’ College players Hugh Robinson and Leo Marfell were both part of the victorious Crusaders side.