Plymouth College hosts New Zealand rugby team

Plymouth College’s First XV played host to New Zealand touring side, Massey High School, at Albion last night. A late addition to the fixture list, Massey had been let down by a London-based school on their arrival in the UK. Plymouth College players and their families stepped in and hosted their team.

Massey were playing their sixth tour match and had a record of four wins and one defeat.  Under the lights at Plymouth Albion, Plymouth College knew that they would need a significant improvement on recent performances if they were to be in the running. The game was a tight and physical affair, with heavy tackles and strong defences featuring strongly. That is not to say that the game was not entertaining; five tries were scored, three by Massey, two by Plymouth. Notably, Plymouth College were 12-10 ahead with ten minutes remaining. The power of their opponents finally told, however, and two late tries allowed the visitors to finish just about deserved winners. Plymouth College 12, Massey High 22.

“The match was wonderfully supported by Plymouth students and parents, creating a great atmosphere for all,” said Plymouth College Head of Rugby, Richard Edwards. “The boys were treated to a powerful rendition of the Haka and the first visit of a New Zealand school to Plymouth College in many years was a great event. Massey players attended a Year 7 Geography lesson to talk about their country, while Years 8, 9 and 10 were treated to a performance of the Haka in the Sports Hall.

“There was the added bonus of a side story, as well, with BBC Spotlight doing a feature on Plymouth College student, Albert Slade, and Massey High School student, Mack Pisi, who both have brothers playing in the current Rugby World Cup. Mack has three brothers playing for Samoa while Albert is the younger brother of former Plymouth College student and Exeter Chiefs player, Henry Slade.”

Plymouth are touring New Zealand in 2017, when they hope to follow the British and Irish Lions while pitting themselves against school rugby teams the length and breadth of New Zealand. Massey High School have promised to play hosts and reciprocate the hospitality they have enjoyed in Plymouth.