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.