Warriors Dispose of Boston 13's

2009-06-21

With one game already under their belt the New Haven Warriors went into the game against the Boston 13’s with high spirit. Conditions at the Boulevard were not picture perfect, as heavy rain had plagued the city for most of the week and large puddles were noticeable on the field. This would not prove to be a deterrent as the Warriors stamped their authority as genuine title contenders for the 2009 AMNRL season.

The opening quarter was a feeling out period for both sides as they looked to gain the upper hand over each other. A number of penalties from the Boston side led to hooker Ihaka Waerea scooting out from dummy half and opening the scoring for the Warriors. Some great go forward from the kick off by the Warriors forwards would see Waerea once again scoot out and carry a number of players over the try line to take the Warriors out to a 12-0 lead after ten minutes.

By halftime the Warriors had a commanding 32-0 lead with further tries from player coach Roy Leoni, stand in captain Derrick Roma, and Ben Kelly.

The second half would prove to be much the same, as the Warriors forwards made easy meters around the ruck area which would then give the opportunity for the back line to shine and finish off some sleek plays.

The final score, New Haven Warriors over the Boston 13’s 56-4.

Roma was named MVP for the Warriors, and was often a handful for the Boston defense causing them trouble out wide. Other players to have noticeable games were Keith Nelson whose stinging defense rocked the 13’s side, and debutant Ben Kelly (formerly of the CT Wildcats) who returned to the football paddock after an 18 month break.

Leoni paid tribute to all players, saying it was an excellent team effort with a handful of special individual efforts.

“The whole team really performed well out there, I simply can’t fault anyone. When you hold a team to only 4 points you have to be happy. It’s amazing to see how much a team can grow and improve in the space of a week.”

The Warriors are once again at home this weekend, and take on the Jacksonville Axemen in a top of the table clash.

New Haven Warriors – 54 (Ihaka Waerea 4, Jeremy Kosbob 2, Ben Kelly 2, Kea Misipeka, Roy Leoni and Derrick Roma tries, Roma 6 conversions)

Boston 13’s – 4

Photos from the game can be found here…