Plucky Aotea battle to the end

• Published date: 15 April 2024
• Author: Dave Murdoch
• Publication title: Bush Telegraph

Their opponents were bursting with Hawke’s Bay representatives and even an All Black, Gareth Evans

The locals were able to field a big forward pack with the likes of Captain Gene Ropoama and Vito Peato leading the charge supported by a large sprinkling of talented juniors who played their hearts out and tackled strongly.

Havelock North however were a well-drilled team basing their game on accurate lineout and maul play to launch multiple attacks through a potent backline often ending out on the touchline with overlaps and tries. The fact that only three of their 11 tries were converted speaks volumes.

A huge crowd came to watch and cars filled every space around the ground...