Semi-Finals Schools National Touch Championship

Semi-Final spots were on the line today at the XBlades New Zealand Secondary Schools National Touch Championship and inspired Touch was played despite the torrid conditions. With teams playing up to four games it has seen heartbreak for some, elation for others and in the case of title favourites Hamilton Boys High (Boys), Papanui High School (Girls) and Macleans College (Mixed) very much business as usual.

The three teams have won all their matches, but there was plenty of interest below them as the remaining Semi-Final spots went down to the wire in the afternoon and early evening. This was no better illustrated than a do or die match between Upper Hutt College and St Andrew’s College with each team giving their absolute all until the final second of play.

Tears flowed and it was heartbreak for St Andrew’s as Upper Hutt clinched a spot in the Semi-Finals. They will play Macleans, while St Peter’s School take on Queen Elizabeth College in the other semi.

The Girl’s Semi-Finals will feature Papanui vs. Nelson College for Girls and Manurewa High up against Hamilton Girls. Manurewa have gone through undefeated and will be looking to make the Final and go for glory against the Janelle Cavanagh-inspired Papanui.

Three teams remain to try and overcome Hamilton Boys High; St Peter’s College have the first shot against them in their Semi-Final and will be looking for an upset. Meanwhile in the second semi, St Kentigen’s College will have their work cut out for them against Gisborne Boys who have been a real force this year.

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