Big win to N.Z. Colts

Press, 15 July 1987, Page 76

Big win to N.Z. Colts

PA Taumarunui A superior forward pack and enterprising back play contributed to a fine win for the New Zealand Colts rugby team, 31-10, over King Country yesterday. It was a disappointing effort by King Country. After three fine performances against Waikato, Counties and Thames Valley it was expected to win the forward battle, but failed to play as a unit and the backline rarely received clean ball. The Colts led, 12-7, at half-time owing to four penalties by Darryl Halligan. Dave Proctor had scored a try for King Country after consistent pressure near the Colts line and Kurt McQuilkin had dropped a goal. The Colts halfback, Graham Bachop, scored his team’s first try early in the second spell and

from then on. the result was not in doubt. Graham and Stephen Bachop combined well behind the Colts scrum, while the centre, Matthew Cooper, made several powerful runs. However, the outstanding Colts backs were Halligan and the wing, Paul Cooker. Of the forwards the No. 8, Robin Brooke, and the captain and prop, Gavin Walsh, stood out with effective performances. In the last three minutes the Colts’ right wing, Craig Dorgan, scored two tries to widen the gap. Scorers.— New Zealand Colts 31: Tries to Craig Dorgan (two), Graham Bachop; Darryl Halligan kicked five penalties and two conversions. King Country 10: Try to Dave Proctor, Kurt McQuilkin kicked a penalty and a dropped goal.