Not only are our Richmond Rovers Rugby league club Senior teams excelling in our Centenary Year, our Richmond teenagers are also very successful in 2013.  For the first time in several years Richmond has 4 teenage teams in the Top 4, competing for the Championship Titles.
 
Congratulations to our U20s, U18s, U16s and U16s and U14s players, coaches and managers. We are proud of you all- all the very best for the Semifinals. 2013 is turning out to be a Golden Year in so many ways.

Read more here

BULLDOGS GRAB THE CUP

A hard-fought rugby league grand final win for the Richmond Bulldogs sees them crowned 2013 SAS Sharman Cup champions and promoted to next year's Fox Memorial Shield.

The Bulldogs capped off their centennial year with an 18-14 win over the Otara Scorpions after a cliffhanger finish in front of a 1500-strong crowd at Henderson's Trusts Stadium on Saturday.

Both teams fully deserved their place in the final after a long and hard season.

The Bulldogs came into the final after a strong performance in the semifinals against the Scorpions, trouncing them 34-22.

The first try of the day came in the fifth minute courtesy of Bruce Tusa who put through Tagisia Fulutusi for the Scorpions.

Toleafoa Leaupepe went agonisingly close but the desperate Scorpions defence held out - until a rampaging Hector Purcell bulldozed over to give Richmond their first points.

Steve Watkinson converted and Richmond were up 6-4. Richmond seemed to get a second wind and with only 10 to go in the first half went over again down the left flank after quick hands had Marcus Auva'a ground the ball under pressure.

Another Watkinson conversion had Bulldogs up 12-4 at halftime.

In the second half the Bulldog's Bronson Harden was held up in goal to be denied a try.

This gave Otara their first opportunity of the half and James Tulikaki crossed to give the Scorpions their second try, making the score 12-8 after a missed conversion.

Richmond did not have to wait long for their next chance and when the Bulldogs kicked early and caught Scorpions' winger Tagisia Fulutusi out of position, the Bulldogs found themselves hard on attack. From there an early tap by Watkinson had him find his opposites napping and he managed to plant the ball to extend the lead to 18-8 after converting the try.

With three minutes remaining Scorpions' five-eight Leiloa Lafaele crossed and with a successful conversion it was 18-14 to the Bulldogs with a minute to go.

From the kickoff Otara missed the ball and it went out for a line dropout.

The Scorpions gained possession and broke away downfield but an Otara grubber failed to find its man and the ball was cleared for the Bulldogs to win 18-14.

SAS Sharman Cup Grand Final Results:

Richmond Bulldogs 18 (12) V (4) 14 Otara Scorpions.

Team list: Meke Unasa, Mafola Timaloa, Debarres Neemia, Marcus Auvaa, Edwin Pita, Steve Watkinson, Josh Siaosi, Hector Purcell, Jason Mudgway, Toleafoa Leaupepe, Ben Seve, Siliga Kepaoa, Karl Simeti. Tama Guthrie, Joe Alesi, Hans Leauanae, Harry Vete.

Richmond started with a hiss and roar with two early tries to winger Mafola Timaloa. The forwards were strong with juggernauts Toleafoa Leaupepe and Hector Purcell smashing up the mid field with strong prop carries.. Tireless captain Karl Simeti was courageous with his early hit ups and tackles. The left edge was kept busy with Marcus Auvaa and Ben Seve containing the attacking Otara backs. The halves combinations formed well to get early ball out to the backs spreading the Scorpions mid field. In one instance Hector Purcell made a mid field line break and gifted his partner in crime Toleafoa a try in front of the post.

Co-Captain Joey Alesi showed great resolve to help his forward pack playing from the front row. In the end Otara were outplayed by a more passionate and determined Richmond team. No doubt Otara will come back firing but first they take on Papatoetoe in next weekends elimination semi final. Player of the day - Mafola Timaloa with two tries. His post try celebrations would have all members proud. 


Richmond Premiers thank all our Richmond supporters that came out to support them out at Ngati Otara Park. Well done to our Richmond Premiers and much thanks to the coaching staff and Richmond families. There is one more game to go. We want all Richmond supporters at the Sharman Cup Grand finals on August 17th at the Trust Stadium.

Half time score: Otara 16, Richmond 14. 
A nail biting 15 mins to go with Otara 20, Richmond Premiers 28. 
8 mins to go Otara 22, Richmond Premiers 30.
34 - 22 Richmond over Otara
Full time score to Richmond Premiers top class today took it to Otara final score 34 -22 an awesome win. 
We are off to the 2013 Sharman Cup Grand Final. 

Team named: Aaron Unasa, Arno, Nio Strickland, Cale Baker, Wiremu Takeriu, Rob Vaii, Lance Wright, Logan Wright, Josh Mana, Kennedy, Andrew Kake, Savi Hafoka, Bronson Harden. Francis Gallagher, Stan Bourke, Anthony Auvaa. Harry Vete. Coach: Henry Solomona, Jesse Bourke. Manager: Tu Lialia’i.

The Premier 1st team played New Lynn Stags at Grey Lynn Park. Prop forward Hans Leaunae and stand off Joshua Siaosi were players called up for the Premier grade team in which club journeyman Stan Bourke and team mate Anthony Auvaa stepped up from the interchange bench.

The first 40 minutes showed much experience and grit with strong carries from forwards Logan Wright, Andrew Kake and loose forward captain Bronson Harden. Rob Vaii and Lance Wright combined well organizing the outside backs and targeted the visiting Stags fringes. Full back Aaron Unasa showed great class and evasiveness to run 80 metres untouched for one of his tries. Centre Nio Strickland also showed great experience and pace to skip through some flimsy defence to score from the scrum. He later ran 60 metres to score untouched. Some sublime footwork and vision saw hooker Josh Mana carve his way through the midfield to score a doble thanks to the momentum of the Richmond forwards. Half time score was 40-10 to the mighty Richmond Bulldogs.

The second half started slow for the Richmond side. With injury (ankle) to Logan Wright some punch was taken away from the Prems Forward pack. Ill-discipline and uncharacteristic handling errors enabled the visiting opposition field position and ball possession. The stags took the opportunities when granted and scored multiple tries in the final 20 minutes of the game. Richmond composed themselves and eventually went on to win 50-28. Player of the day went to stand out performer Aaron Unasa.

After 18 games played this 2013 season the Premier 1st have won 15, loss 3 and now go to the Major semi-final against the 2013 undefeated Otara Scorpions at Ngati Otara Park. The winner of this match go straight to the 2013 Sharman Cup Premier 1st Grand Final. The team will need to train well and tweak a few things before going into this weekend game with a positive attitude. Please come on out in support of our team and club as both teams will be fighting hard to go through to the grand final. The boys would appreciate your support. BiteEMBulldogs

Richmond Premier 1st played Te Atatu Roosters at Jack Colvin Park in West Auckland. After a disappointing loss to Otara Scorpions the team trained hard with a back to basics attitude this week. The first half saw the Richmond boys dominate from the big boys up front creating space for the halves and allowed space for the speedy outside backs. The platform was set and structure worked very well with a 26 to nil lead. Unfortunately, the Richmond boys fell asleep and allowed Te Atatu both possession and field position that they capitalized on. The Roosters scored 22 unanswered points. Richmond pulled away late in the game with a 30-22 win.

With four remaining games to the season it was important to take the 2 competition points. Next week our team play the East Coast Bays Barracudas at Grey Lynn park. They are currently placed third on the ladder and no doubt going to bring with them a tough team. We would love to have your support at this weekends home game.

Player of the Day was awarded to second rower Josh Tui for his relentless defence. He was strong all round also on attack showing great foot work and a powerful fend.

Also, the team would like to acknowledge our 2013 winner of the front jersey naming rights sponsor ‘Saints Academy’. We at the Richmond Rovers rugby league club are very happy to be associated with this organization.

The Richmond Rovers rugby league club has entered into a partnership with Revival massage therapy.

Revival massage therapy, a short distance from the Richmond home club at 498 Great North road, Grey Lynn is a new friend of the Richmond club and a current member of the Grey Lynn Business Association.

Chairman Gus Fepuleai hails the new partnership as a natural fit for both parties. The Richmond Rovers rugby league club is excited to have Revival massage therapy on board as a club partner.” He said “The Therapeutic, Sports and Relaxation Massage is a great fit for the club and attracts over 1,000 people each weekend to its club, with a large percentage being Grey Lynn residents.

The partnership, based on the successful model the Richmond club has used with other local businesses, will see the two organisations work closely together to offer club members an enhanced experience and increased interaction with the Richmond club's Premier grade players.

Viv Butler, owner and massage therapist at Revival massage therapy, is excited about the partnership.

"Rugby league is a very popular sport in the Grey Lynn community so I'm thrilled that revival massage can support the local rugby league community," she said.

Receive off your first one hour massage when you mention you are from the Richmond Rovers club. Furthermroe all Richmond members will receive 15% off. Revival massage therapy also have concession packages available. Book an appointment today, for you or someone you love!

Revival massage therapy work closely along side other health professionals such as physiotherapists, pilates instructors, dietitians, breathing specialists, PT's and more.

Revival Massage,
498 Great North Road,
Grey Lynn, Auckland
Phone: (09) 213 9557 | 021 816 338
Email: [email protected]

We still need to see some more volunteers come forward! Although a FREE Event always room for more.

There is still room to perform, If you know of anyone wanting to perform, sing, dance provide some free entertainment & give back to our mighty club then holla back at us.

We need to ensure we have a magical day for our young ones, the future of this club. We have over 2,500 followers on our Facebook page. Our flyer is going live on radio stations and Richmond will attract some heavy numbers on the Queens birthday Monday.

Come on ladies and gents let us know where you can help or what you can offer or donate what can you do to give back to junior players feel free to Private Message the team. Any thoughts and ideas, Gifts towards Prizes on games and activities would be greatly appreciated.

Hello all

Nominations are urgently being sought for any past or present Junior Players in their respective Positions from Grades U/6s - U/18s for the Team of the Century.

Coaches/Managers/Trainers/Physio's/Ball boys will also be considered as Centennial Officials

It is envisaged that a Historical Team will be announced at the Queen’s Birthday, Family Day, and “Opening Ceremony”

All past and present members are welcome to forward Nominations.   

Please spread the word to all, Past and Present

Submissions close 3.00pm, Monday, 27 May, 2013 and must be forwarded to the Coaching & Management Director, Peter Ah Kuoi on [email protected]

                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Our Queens Birthday Centenary Celebrations are on NEXT WEEKEND!!!  It’s fast approaching and some of our past Richmond legends have already flown into Auckland to celebrate our 100th year with us!!!

1.       To all those of you who have registered, booked and paid for selected Events- Thank you! You will receive confirmation of your booking this week, either by email (if you provided us with an email address) or by post.  The confirmation will be your receipt, no tickets will be issued, there will be a Register at the door at each Event.

2.       To those of you who have not yet registered and/or not yet selected Events to attend-

For catering purposes, we will need to have final numbers for all Events this week.  If you are intending to come to any of the Events on Queens Birthday Weekend -  YOU MUST MAKE YOUR BOOKING AND PAYMENT

BY THIS FRIDAY 24 MAY 2013 TO AVOID MISSING OUT

Hot tip: quickest way to book is to either:

1.       Click on this link http://www.richmondroversrugbyleague.com/100-year-registration.html or

2.       Visit our Richmond rovers website home page, click on the bulldog icon on the top right hand corner and follow the simple instructions

Looking forward to an exciting and memorable weekend for our Great and Mighty Club!

Richmond Centenary Committee

GREAT NEWS- RICHMOND ROVERS EXTENDS DEADLINE FOR DISCOUNTS FOR 100 YEAR QUEENS BIRTHDAY EVENTS

Bookings are flooding in.  So to help out, we have extended the deadline for the discounts to the events to SUNDAY 5 MAY. 
 
All members who pay their $20 registration fee and pay for their events by this Sunday 5 May will receive the discounts.  How? 3 options- on-line via our Richmond website or post forms to our PO Box 78-391 Grey Lynn 1245 or fill out forms and hand in to the Club at this Saturday’s team prizegiving.

HOT TIP- if not registered yet, pay your $20 and the event prices at the same time.

Over 100 of our people have already booked the Saturday night dinner, not to mention the Friday night mix and mingle .  Book your event this week and you will secure your part in the greatest Richmond weekend in the last 100 years.

We can’t wait for Queens Birthday Weekend- Richmond Rovers 100 Year Committee

Richmond Premiers played Te Atatu Roosters at Grey Lynn park. Half time score 16-6. Full time score 24-14 to Richmond. This win takes the team into second position after 5 rounds with 4 wins, 1 draw. Next week the boys play East Coast Bays Barracuddas who are currently sitting at the top of the Sharman Cup ladder board. Let's get on board & support the boys in our centenary year. #biteembulldogs

The Richmond Premier 1st played Otara Scorpions on Saturday 20th April 2013. Otara were the Sharman Cup Premier 1st defending champions and as expected they would come with a strong line up based on there early season results.

The Premier 1st had two fairly easy games in recent weeks win huge wins with the most recent being a 78-0 drubbing of the Manukau Magpies. Coaches Henry Solomona and Jess Bourke were expecting a tough tussle. With a few injuries the coaching team were wanting a strong side to take Otara's forward pack on with former Richmond Rovers junior Lance Wright on debut in the hooker role. The team was lead strongly by prop forward Logan Wright, captain Akuso and Steve Watkins in the forward pack. The teams dominance proved strong in the opening 40 minutes however the lack of execution let the team down and effectively gave the visiting team enough space for a fight back. The Premier 1st team went in to the half time break leading 10-6.

As expected Otara came out with a hiss and a roar and to the coaches disappointment the team strayed away from the game plan providing Otara ample opportunities to sneak back into the game. Ball security and forced passes frustrated the Premier 1st boys and the determined Otara team scored with 15 minutes gone in the second half. The weather provided some difficulty with heavy rain and flash lightning affecting both teams for a solid 15 minutes. However this did not deter the Premier 1st team from forcing passes and throwing long balls in our own half giving up ball possession and valuable field position.
 
Otara mounted some pressure and scored again to take a commanding 18-10 lead. With five minutes to go the team scored in the corner and on debut hooker Lance Wright slotted the side line conversion to take the game within 2 points, 18-16 to Otara. Unfortunately, Otara scored again in the dying minutes to take the final score to 22-16 to Otara.

Thanks to all the Richmond supporters who braved the wind, cold and rain. We wish to make up for this and look to make amends this coming weekend when we take on the Te Atatu Roosters at Grey Lynn park, 12.45pm kick off.

Waitemata Good Citizen's Awards 2013
Wanted! Local heroes of all ages who volunteer their time to help make the Waitemata area a great place to live.

The Waitemata Local Board has decided to recognise community volunteers young and old with the Waitemata Good Citizen's Awards 2013, culminating in a presentation evening at the Auckland Town Hall on Thursdau 30 May.

Community Volunteer Awards:
Held once a term, these awards have been established to recognise and reward
1. Individuals who volunteer their time for community benefit.
2. Youth who volunteer their time for community benefit (for nominees 24 years of age and under).
3. Not-for-profit organisations who volunteer their time for community benefit and/or provide a platform for individuals to volunteer their time.

The awards will be accorded to individuals and groups whose contributions have been recognised to benefit the communities within the local board area.

Nominations may be drawn from, but not restricted to, the following sectors:
1. Arts, Culture and Heritage.
2. Education - including adult, tertiary and community.
3. Environment and Beautification.
4. Social and Community, including health and social service.
5. Sport, Fitness and Leisure.
6. Faith based institutions running programmes for benefit of the wider community.

Nominations must be made on the official nomination form or online and to reach the Waitematā Local Board Office by 5pm on 19 April 2013.

See below for more information:
Awards Criteria and Information.
Flyer advertisement
NOMINATE YOUR LOCAL HEROES HERE

The Richmond Premiers are the talk of the competition after their excellent start to the season.

A human tunnel was formed to welcome the Richmond Premiers onto the field for the first home game of the 2013 season. A capacity crowd and the radiant sun proved to be positive indicators for the game ahead against 2012 Sharman Cup finalists, Papatoetoe Panthers.

No truer words were said than ‘Defence wins games’.

While the Rovers defensive line remained solid, the first signs of a weakening Panthers defence came nearly 20 minutes in the game with ex Vulcans player Aaron Nootai scoring on the left wing, opening what was to be a wave of tries.

The poor handling skills of the Panthers were far from their winning 2012 form, with a myriad of errors allowing the Rovers to race away to a 26-0 lead at half time through tries to Toafofoa Sipley, Junior Uale, Savi Hafoka and Aaron Nootai again.

The Rovers continued the second half with the same intensity and momentum with Siliga Kepaoa surging ahead a clear 30 metres to score between the posts converted successfully by Harry Vete. Five minutes had not lapsed before Captain Karl Simeti busted through the flailing Panthers defence to score, and Toafofoa adding a further 4 points to the board shortly after.

Guarding the line after three consecutive defensive plays, the impenetrable Richmond wall came down 65 minutes into the game after the Panthers hit back.

Harry Vete donned his golden boots to successfully slot a total of 8 conversions. Final score: 56-8 Richmond Premiers.

Richmond’s captain Karl Simeti was inspirational for the home team forcing several turnovers with his confrontational defence. Another stand-out for the match was Junior Warriors player Toafofoa Sipley who led the hitup count in attack with 13 hit ups earning him the player of the day award.

Coach Ming Mafoe was pleased with the result though is determined to see a reduction in the error rate.

Next game : Sat 13 April 2:30pm, Moyle Park. vs Manukau Magpies

GAME REPORT
Premiers game kicks off at 2.30
Richmond Premiers number 8 (Hector Purcell) opens the scoring. 6 - 0
Eagles hit straight back off the kick off with a bust up the middle from number 7. 12 - 6
Richmond (Jason Mudgway) reply with a try out of dummy half, no conversion. 12 - 10
Another try for Richmond (Tama Guthrie), conversion missed. 12 - 14
With one in the bin for Ellerlsie, Richmond (Karl Simiti) grab a try just before half time. 12 - 26
Richmond (Karl Simiti) in again right next to the post. 12 - 20 to Richmond.
Richmond (Edwin Pita) first to score in the second half. 12 - 32
Ellerslie hit back with a long range effort. 18 - 42
Richmond (Edwin Pita) reply with a try in the left corner. 18 - 46
Ellerslie touch down in the opposite corner. 24 - 46
Richmond (Harry Vete) in again. 24 - 50
Full time Ellerslie Premiers def. by Richmond Premiers 24 - 50

Tuesdays and Thursday . 6.30-8.00pm rain or shine

Turn up on time, warm up as a team, do your dynamic stretches properly to prepare for the season. Do the business like you are professionals. The more efficient we are at trainings, the more efficient and purposeful we will be at game time.

Richmond Academy
Thanks Lui for being Head Coach for Richmond Academy this year. Very well done to all those boys (about 10 from under 20s) who have been training consistently with Academy since November last year. You guys will reap those rewards this year. You will find you are fitter, faster, stronger and more able to learn and apply new skills and plays. You need to keep pushing yourself at team trainings and during games so you get even better and those around you also become better. That way as a team, we wll become a strong and fit unit with no limits to what we can do this season. 

Titans NRL experience
Great work, Jaedyn, Samson, Keneti, Matt, Lllewis and Ley for representing our team and club very well at Titans this year. All boys had the inspiring opportunity to live the NRL experience. All will tell you that Academy really helped prepare them physically and mentally for the hard training and expectations – on and off the field. The boys had a thoroughly awesome, valuable and rewarding experience. 

Richmond Premiers crossfit challenge
Thanks to Fahren, Lousi, Julian and Jordan who represented our under 20s in the crossfit challenge at Les Mills last month. It was a very early start (6.30am), it was tough and our team did really well, coming in 3rd and 4th overall. It was an awesome morning and great to take part in fitness workout with our seniors, thanks boys!

Richmond Prems  THROWDOWN is all good to go with x12 teams all registered and amping. A BIG  THANK YOU to all those supporting the cause and looking foward to the Richmond  Pride being pushed to its potential on Feb 16th.

We also want to thank those Richmond Junior Teams, and other Sports teams/clubs who were willing to support the cause. Our Priority was first & foremost our RICHMOND SENIORS. Hopefully later down the track prior to the Season commencing we can organise another event.

Below are the teams who will be competing. Team Captains, I would strongly recommend bringing your team every Sat mornings to the Senior Pre Season camp, 7am, Les Mills-CrossFit HPU (Victoria St). This will allow an insight into the types of exercises expected, as the programme and rules will only be given out on the day of Event by Mark Michaels (Prems Head trainer).

1.    Richmond Roses,
2.    Richmond Uso.s,
3.    Richmond Ali'is,
4.    Richmond  Tokes,
5.    Richmond U/20's,
6.    Tag Samoa Open Mens
7.    Tag Samoa  Mixed,
8.    Richmond Prems/Resvs,
9.    Richmond Prems/Resvs,
10.   Ricmond Prems/Resvs,
11.  Richmond Prems/Resvs,
12.   Richmond  Prems/Resvs

*REMINDERS*
- Competing Teams Need to be  @ Les Mills Car Park 0630am for De-Brief
- Please have Team Rego Fee to Molly  (team manager) before Feb 9th. $40 per team.
- Richmond Throwdown Games will  commence @ 7am sharp.
- We strongly encourage to bring your families and  teams for support. Any children, Please DO NOT let them run around Venue for  safety reason's.
- Each team to provide their own Water,
- Bring Work Out  Towel & Runners,

* VERY IMPORTANT*
- Team Captains, this will be a WORK OUT session, so please make sure your Players have no serious medical conditions or injuries. Its a team building event, lets have some serious fun with out any issues.

"Richmond THROWDOWN Programme"
0630am - Team(s) debrief
0700am - Games commence
0800am - Games finish (Prize giving)
0830am - Sausage Sizzle & Light Refreshments @ Victoria Park (playground area)

Thank you to Steven Glucina from LJ Hookers, Ponsonby for his $1,000 donation. Late last year, Liz Ah Kuoi recommended Steven to the Yandall family, who then appointed Steven as their preferred real estate agent, Steven wrapped up the sale on 24 Dec, and he paid $1000 to our Richmond Rovers Rugby league club from his already favorably priced commission- as per Steven’s promise to give the Club $1000 for every referral that leads to a sale. So if you or someone you know is planning to sell your home please make contact with Steven Glucina and let him know your from the Richmond Rovers club.

A special thanks must go out also to Liz for making the referral, and also more importantly the Yandall family for selecting and entrusting Steven with selling their family home and thereby benefiting the Club with $1000, and of course Steven for donating $1000 to us.

In 2013, the Richmond Rovers rugby league club hope to cater to all our junior and senior members. Auckland Rugby League have confirmed the following grades and weight. For more information please contact us. Click here to read here.

Grade Weight Allowance (Up to)
U/6 Restricted 25 Kgs
U/7 Restricted 30 Kgs
U/8 Restricted 35 Kgs
U/9 Restricted 40 Kgs
U/10-11 Restricted 47 Kgs
U/12-13 Restricted 60 Kgs
U/14-15 Restricted 70 Kgs
U/16-17 Restricted 80 Kgs
Colts Restricted (18-20) 85 Kgs
Open Age Restricted 85 Kgs

RICHMOND ROVERS RUGBY LEAGUE COACHING AND DEVELOPMENT

Congratulations to the following coaches who have completed Course requirements.
Beginner Min Mod Course
Michael CHAN TING, Patrick MAUGATUTIA, Kurt ENSOR, Patrick TAMATI, Willie UALIKA, Joe LUNDON, Sali WATCH, Chloe KAISER, Kyla KAISER-DAY, Henry NICHOLAS, Junior FIU, Peter AH KUOI
Beginner Youth Course
Junior FIU, Peter AH KUOI, Faavae KALOLO, Darren OKESENE, Luisa AVAIKI, Russell McKINNON
Beginner Senior Club Coach
Junior FIU, Faavae KALOLO, Luisa AVAIKI
ARL Referees Course
Micahel CHAN-TING, Faavae KALOLO, Ricky WILLIAMS, Sali WATCH, Peter AH KUOI

AUCKLAND RUGBY LEAGUE AWARDS
 A great accomplishment and well deserved achievements for all involved and to the recipients.
* Congratulations to Mose Newton who was awarded Auckland Rugby League Under 18s Best and Fairest Player of the Year.
* Congratulations to Liz Ah Kuoi-Atmore who was awarded Auckland Rugby League International Grade Under 18s Manager of the Year.
* Congratulations to Fue Lomi who was awarded Auckland Rugby League Premier 2nd Best and Fairest Player of the Year.

RICHMOND ROVERS RUGBY LEAGUE REPRESENTATIVES
Congratulations to the following on their appointments to Auckland representative teams:
Regional Representative Challenge Staff Appointments
Northern Region
Under 13 Grade - Coach - Darren OKESENE
Under 18 Grade - Coach - Luisa AVAIKI /Assistant Coach - Liz AH KUOI
Under 13 Northern Regional Trialists
Arthur FRASER, Carlos HENRY, Dylan TAVITA, Mikey WILLIAMS, Harris ROPATI-JONES, Nathan NGAROPO, Sam TOFA-TIMOTEO
Northern Regional Under 13 Representatives
Hayes OKESENE, Carlos HENRY, Dylan TAVITA, Mikey WILLIAMS
Akarana Falcons Under 17
Manager - Anita SIMTH-McKINNON
Akarana Falcons ZONE Under 17 Trialist
Toafofoa SIPELY, Kenneth LAFAELE, Michael McKINNON, Timothy SMITH, Joshua IOANE, Tom LEOTA, Aaron BIDDLE, Taniela LEKA, Sitiveni AIPOLO, Mitchell SMITH, Isaac WALKER, Eruera KEREOPA, Eddy PAOTAMA, Jake ROPATI, Fred MULLER (Playing U18's)
Akarana Falcons Zone U15 Hearts Camp Trialist
Isaac AH KUOI-ATMORE
NZ Womens Rugby League Kiwi Train On Squad
Annabelle HOHEPA, Charlotte ARNOPP-SCANLAN, Lisa CAMPBELL
Amber HALL, Tasha TAPU, Charmaine McMENAMIN

Congratulations for Representative Selection
Akarana Flacons Zone Under 15's
Isaac AH KUOI-ATMORE
Akarana Falcons Zone Under 17's
Joshua IOANE. Kenneth LAFAELE, Michael McKINNON, Toafofoa SIPLEY
Auckland North V Auckland South Under 16 Trialist
Scott TOFA-TIMOTEA, Otineru LIO, Jamon PEAU, Casey LAFAELE, Nathaniel ROACHE, Kuramate TE IRIRANGI-HENRY, Mataio TIMALOA
Mathew MOKOROA, Bradley ABBEY, Bhailee DEAN, Tyrone KANUTA, Hikairoa WETERE
Auckland North V Auckland South Under 18 Trialist
Keneti AH KUOI-ATMORE, Mathew FEPULEAI, Edwin TAFEAMALI'I, Samisoni VAIOLETI, Tamuta MATAORA, Jordan WALL, Julius VAETARU
Mose NEWTON, Eddy POTAMA, Fahren FRUEAN, Julian CLUBB, Jaedyn TAIMALIETANE, Louis CLUBB, Robert LIAI
Auckland North Prem 2 Regional Challenge Trialist
Lomia LOMI, Debarres NEEMIA, Roni TUKIUHA, Steve VAIHU, Elia FUE, Justin LAKATANI, Leon LATOA, Fili LIVA, Gau LOMI, Fue LOMI, Losua LOMI, John MANA, Charlie NOO, Tar PEILUU, Semese SOMONA, Cornelius TALAGI, Marcus TANIUA, Derek TIMINIS, Luaer VAIHU
Auckland North U16 Regional Representative
Casey LAFAELE
Auckland North U18 Regional Representative
Keneti ATMORE-AH KUOI, Louis CLUBB, Julian CLUBB, Matthew BRUCE-FEPULEAI, Tamuta MATAORA, Mose NEWTON, Edwin TAFEAMALII, Jaedyn TAIMALIETANE, Julius VAETARU, Samisoni VAIOLETI, Ley VANO, Serevasio VETENIBUA
Auckland North Prem 2nd Regional Representative
Justin LAKATANI

BIG WIN FOR RICHMOND YOUNG GUNS
Congratulations to the Richmond under 18s team who played Mangere East Nesian Hawks on Saturday 18th August at Victoria park #3. The Luisa Avaiki coached team play the Otahuhu Leopards this Saturday 25th August at Moyle Park, 12.45pm. A huge confident boost for the under 18s club team and coaching management. With Manurewa Marlins going through to the grand final the Leopards are the only team that stand in there way. Be at the game this weekend to support our team taken on some of the best talent in South Auckland. 

RICHMOND TO BE REPRESENTED AT GRAND FINAL, TOKES
The Richmond Tokes finish the round robin in first place out of eleven with a solid 15 wins, 2 losses and 1 draw. The Bernard Vaihu coached team has some payback at the back of there mind as they have been beaten twice during the season by neighborhood rival Mt Albert Lions who placed second in the unforgiving Premier 2nd competition. The top 2 from each section Premier 2nd Championship began on Saturday 18th. Richmond took on a very traditionally tough Otahuhu Leopards team at Avondale Racecourse in what is considered the biggest game in the competition between two heavy juggernauts. The Tokes though showing resilience and skill came out on top 20 points to 18. This crucial win sees the Tokes team go straight to the Auckland Rugby League Premier 2nd Championship grand final to be played on Sunday 2nd September at 12noon.

ROSES GIVE IT TO GOOD GO AGAINST RELENTESS PAPAKURA IN GRAND FINAL
The Richmond Roses have been the big movers in 2012 with a great mixture of youth and experience. The Roses played a solid Papakura Ladies on Sunday 19th August at Cornwall park in the Auckland rugby league Womens competition Grand final. The Roses were playing a very tough and uncomprimising Papakura line up. The Roses despite going down 48 -10 gave this game there blood, sweat and tears and can hold there heads up high to finish the 2012 year as Runners up.

PREMIER 1ST GO DOWN TO GALLANT SCORPIONS IN FINAL
The Ming Mafoe coached Richmond Premier 1st played the Otara Scorpions in there respective grand final. Played at Mt Smart stadium #2 at 6.15pm the Scorpions hit out to an early lead and continued this momentum in the second half to win 22 - 0. Val McDonald, Selwyn Zarins and Paki Alesi played exceptionally well. However the evening went to a well enthused and spirited Otara Scorpions team. The coaching team and players can walk away with there heads held high knowing that they represented the Richmond Rovers rugby league club with pride.  

It was the third game (Game 12) in the second round of the Sharman Cup and the mighty Richmond Rovers travelled to Nagti Otara to play the second placed Otara Scorpions. In Round 3 we lost to Otara at home so we needed to front up in the forwards and dominate the ruck area as well as defend well outwide to have any chance of beating a well drilled side.

The go forward from the forwards was of high quality enabling the best opportunities from our half back and stand off combination of Josh Mana & Tama Gurthrie to continue their fine form from last weeks game against Glenfield greyhounds. The first half started slow with Otara scoring first , we then follow suit with a try to Faavae Toloua in the corner and Josh Mana slotting the conversion from the sideline to give us the lead 6-4 with only 15 minutes gone. Otara scored again out wide and then we scored two more tries to take us to the half time with a 16-8 lead. We had the wind in the first half so we were now playing against the wind and running up hill. Otara started strong scoring two tries in the first 15 minutes of the season half. We then scored two unconverted tries through some good finishing tries by Cale Baker & Josh Siaosi both scoring in the corner. With 20 minutes left in the game Richmond were leading 24-16. Otara found there second wind and went on a scoring spree scoring four tries with great momentum taking the lead 32-24. With our reserves bench down to only two players and with 10 minutes remaining Richmond managed to get a roll on with a couple of penalties. Momentum started to change thanks to a bustling run and unconverted try from prop forward Hector Purcell taking the to score 32-28. With five minutes remaining Richmond managed to force repeat sets and penalties to go our way and was back in Otara's half with merely minutes left in the game. With one set of six left Richmond had to use this well. On the back of four tackles Josh mana received the ball on the final tackle and kicked diagonally behind Otara's defence and this was regathered by a wide running Aaron Nootai (pictured) who scored under the posts this made it 32-32 and with time up the last act of the day went to Tama Guthrie who converted the try to allow one of the years upsets and the Richmond Premiers to come away winning 34-32.
P​LAYERS OF THE DAY: Mia Tautiga & Bronson Harden.
Next week we play Mangere East Hawks at Grey Lynn Park. We would love your support as we look to continue our winning streak to push us in to the top four. ALL DAY DOGGIES!!!

The Richmond Premiers played the SAS Sharman Cup competition leaders the Papatoetoe Panthers at there home ground. With a mixed week of training due to injuries there were the three players who pulled out for various reasons. No trouble as there was adequate cover from our developing and always pressing Premier 1st grade team. The Premiers did get out 17 players with inclusion of our Auckland Vulcan players: Aaron Nootai and Warriors full time contracted player Ivan Penehe. The Richmond team were hoping there experiences from the Auckland Vulcans would rub off to the other 15 players.

Missed first up tackles, forced errors in our half and penalties allowed Papatoetoe Panthers to a handy 22-12 lead going into the 
break. The second half started well with the Premiers scoring two tries to Aukuso & Toleafoa Leaupepe with one conversion to make the score 22-22 with 25 minutes remaining. Dropped balls, lack of respect for the ball and referee allowed Papatoetoe to go on a scoring spree with three unanswered tries with only 1 kick over making the score 36-22 with ten minutes left in the game. Richmond were its our own worst enemy losing the ball in the first tackle  and in there own half. Defence was sound for the remainder of the game. Richmond built up some pressure in which outside back Edwin Pita scored crossing over to take the score to 36-26. With  seven minutes remaining  Richmond ran the ball on  the last  tackle down the blind side. Ivan managed to get some ground and before  being flung over the side line he flicked the ball back into the hands of  Captain Mia Tautiga who  went over to score untouched. Aukuso converted the try  to take the score to 36-32 still to  the Panthers. 

The Panthers took there time returning the ball back for kick off. As the home team kicked off the hooter  sounded for full time. Richmond earned a penalty as the Panthers defence were  well in front of the kicker. Aaaron Nootai kicked the ball out to gain another  20 metres. The Premier boys knew the last stoppage will be full time so decided  to tap the ball and passed it from one side of the field to the other. Utility  player Josh Sioasi found a gaping whole on the edge in which he drew in his  winger and passed to Ivan who sprinted down the line to score an awesome try in  the corner. So this made it 36 all with the kick to come. This unfortunately was missed however the boys showed a lot of character and belief.

Special mention to Ivan Penehe, Aaron Nootai who put the extra effort in. Also an honourable mention for Fia who was brought into this game from the Premier 1st and helped us.

The Richmond Premiers played Glenfield greyhounds at Sunnynook park, Glenfield. After losing to Elleslie Eagles the week before we had to step up if we were to take something out of this 2012 season. Going into this game we knew we had to start well as Glenfield were above us on 10 points and Richmond sitting on 6. The Richmond boys started well in the first half going up 16-6 before the rain began to pour.
With our halves Josh Mana and Tama Guthrie directing the team around the park we were making big advances up the field. With depth and pin point kicking from our halves we managed to pin Glenfield in there own half. Our defence worked well and forced mistakes from the home team. With this we scored mutlple tries to full back Savi Hafoka, half back Josh Mana, prop forward Junior Uale (pictured) and finished the game on a 32-16 winning high. This was a big effort from all the boys. Stand out players included: James Finlayson, Ioane Godinet, Mia Tautiga and the forward pack. Player of the days were Joseph Alesi (Backs) & Junior Uale (Forwards).

The Richmond Premiers played their last round game at New Lynn Stags home ground, Lawson Park. The Richmond Premiers this week have a few injuries to Savi Hafoka, Lafi Faamausili, Steve Watkinson and Pati Taula so called up from Premier 1st was Andrew Kake, Santos Taurua and James Finlayson who all are confidently capable of filling in the holes. In the opening first 10 minutes Richmond started slowly missing a number of crucial tackles and allowing a lead of 12-6 to New Lynn. Our line speed was far too slow, our marker defence did not defend as well as it should and it showed with the half time score being 18-14 to New Lynn.

The second half started with both team’s not trading tries but making mistakes and incomplete sets of six. New Lynn started off better scoring an unconverted try to extend their lead 22-14. We had to be the next to score to get back in the game. This came in the form of a picture perfect pass from Tama Guthrie finding Nale Bourke who went in to score a converted try to take the score to 22-20 to New Lynn. We scored two quick converted tries to Junior Uale and Hector Purcell (picture left) to take the lead 32-22 to the Doggies. With 10 minutes left in the game we made several mistakes and surrendered field position. This allowed New Lynn back in to the game in which they scored a converted try to take the game to 32-28 to Richmond. We had a set of six and with two minutes to go we gave up the ball on the 4th tackle to hand over possession and position. New Lynn attacked the blind side and found a hole to score in the corner. With full time up it was a 32-32 draw. Thank you to the Richmond supporters who came to support their team.