Kawanishi Japan Rugby Tour Match- 11’s Rugby Players
On Monday 28th July, Wyvern boys from Year 5 were involved in a rugby match against a touring team from Japan. The Japanese team was from Kawanishi Rugby School, who were enjoying an Australian tour.
Our Wyvern boys were obviously excited about the opportunity to test their skills against an unknown Japanese side renowned for their quick pace and handling skills. We were blessed with fine weather for the match. The National Anthems were eagerly sung with pride and the scene was set for an enthralling encounter.
On kick off, the hill of the Johnson Oval was peppered with the player’s school mates lending vigorous support. Wyvern’s 11’s got off to a solid start with penetrating runs from Wil Rumi and solid defence from Toby Phillips. But it was forward of the match Gabe Poidevin who opened the scoring for Wyvern diving over in the corner after a 30m incision.
The Japanese style of play was expansive and skilled but Wyvern proved unrelenting early, starving the visitors of vital possession. Despite brilliant low tackles from the Japanese, more tries were scored after some outstanding lead up play directed by halfback Angus Churchin and 5/8 Flynn Gannon. Tom Oates, Will Rumi, Gabe Poidevin, Oliver Kleppich, Angus Ole added more tries before Kawanishi hit back with one of their own. It was great to see the sportsmanlike but raucous support from Wyvern spectators, was also afforded to the tourists after their try was scored.
With the excited and vocal crowd willing them on, the Wyvern boys refused to stop until the final whistle. The Wyvern forwards led the way with Tom Hirst proving a threat in tight. Ben Crawford and Callum Latham pestered the Kawanishi team with great all-round performances. With only minutes to go, the Wyvern team went over once more to seal the victory. A gap was spotted and with a blistering turn of speed, Jack Purkis left tacklers in his wake to score a fabulous try under the sticks.
All boys played with great attitude and also were gracious hosts to the Japanese tourists at the after match function. During the function Wyvern’s Captain Sam Eagleton, gave a wonderful speech thanking parents and players, afterwards presentations were made to both teams. Congratulations to Tom Oates and Gabe Poidevin who were recognised as Wyvern’s men of the match for their awesome efforts. Congratulations boys!
