New Zealand Under 19 Boys Take Trans Tasman Serie

New Zealand Under 19 Boys Take Trans Tasman Series With Epic Win

New Zealand’s Under 19 Boys Touch team has clinched their Trans Tasman Series 2-1 after defeating Australia 8-7 today in Canberra. Showing equal parts flair and determination, the boys produced an inspiring performance to the end the tournament on an unforgettable note.

In another classic match by the two teams, the final result went down to wire with Chris Swain’s last-minute touchdown – that featured the North Harbour product diving over a defender, catching the ball in mid-air and planting it – providing the difference. With the seconds ticking away Swains’ thoughts were simple, “If we get this we can win the game. If we get this, it’s over”.

Players converged from all corners when the final hooter blasted and the scale of the triumph sunk in. “As soon as we scored that touchdown in the corner I knew we had it in the bag. I can’t describe the feeling, it tops any achievement for me … all the hard work paid off,” said Under 19s Captain Tivoli Guthrie.

The win was a true team effort and the strong bond that the players and Coach Pete Bentley fostered should not be discounted. The squad will return to New Zealand tomorrow.

“The series win by the Under 19s Boys is a great example of the work that’s been done to prepare our boys for the elite Men’s grade. We’re now looking to transfer that across to our Women’s pathway with a view to winning the World Cup in Scotland in June,” said Touch New Zealand CEO Joe Sprangers.

Australia won the overall Trans Tasman Series after clinching the Under 19 Girls, Under 21 Women and Under 21 Men’s grades on Saturday.

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