Old Boys University takes on Lions supporters

Old Boys University takes on Lions supporters

Proving that in Wellington at least, rugby camaraderie can bridge the gap between hemispheres, it is the battle of the supporters at the Basin Reserve. The battle involves two games of rugby on Thursday 30 June from 1.30pm.

Players for the Lions supporters have been selected by Gulliver's Travel. The 'Gulliver's Barbarians' are estimating at least 500 supporters on the day.

The All Black supporters to play them have been selected from Old Boys University RFC 'reserve' teams.

The Old Boys University side believe they’re facing an even bigger challenge than the Lions in bringing together talented players from several countries.

“Wellington is a melting pot of cultures and it’s reflected in our teams” says Old Boys University RFC stalwart Paddy Gough.

“There’s the full range of Pacific Island’s represented from Samoa to Rotuma, Maori, and the usual blood lines back to the United Kingdom itself. The main challenge with this lot might be deciding who buys the beers afterwards.”

Mr Gough is promising a fun game but says that the Old Boys University team will be just as uncompromising as the All Blacks.

“Make no mistake, we’ll be playing to win. Just because they’re on holiday doesn’t mean we’ll go easy on them.”

The on-field action is expected to continue with a free entry aftermatch get together for players and supporters in the Basin Reserve Long Room, to be catered by the Cambridge Hotel, as sponsors of Old Boys University Rugby.

© Scoop Media