Wairarapa-Bush did not taste success at the regional under-11s and under-13s central zone tournament in Wanganui last week but their teams still made impressive progress over the three days.
First up, the under-11s met Hutt Valley and, with the Wairarapa-Bush squad being troubled by travel sickness, it was Hutt Valley who called the tune, winning 44-12. Wairarapa-Bush were sluggish and lacked focus and Hutt Valley were quick to capitalise. Player of the day for Wairarapa-Bush was Rocco Berry.
It was a much better prepared Wairarapa-Bush side which met Wanganui on the second day. Wanganui won 10-5 but Wairarapa-Bush created several try-scoring opportunities, only one of which they were able to convert into points, and that came right on full-time. Logan Wakefield was player of the day.
On day three, the Wairarapa-Bush under-11s took on Wellington, and while Wellington won 15-0, the tenacity of the Wairarapa-Bush defence was the highlight. Wellington, which won all three of their games, launched many strong attacks but generally the Wairarapa-Bush defence held firm. Player of the day for Wairarapa-Bush was Josh Matthews.
The Wairarapa-Bush under-13s also lacked energy in their opening match against their Hutt Valley counterparts. Hutt Valley, which ended up unbeaten, played the game at pace and ran out comfortable 44-12 winners. Logan Allen was player of the day.
