Australian Schools 2016: Seven names to remember
CLICK HERE: Match Highlights – Australian Schools v NZ Schools
Although Australian Schools fell short against their New Zealand counterparts in Auckland on Saturday, the visitors showed plenty of heart to fight back from 22-3 down at half time to give the Kiwis a run for their money.
Despite eventually going down 32-22, there were plenty of positives to take from the Australian performance and a number of names to remember.
Opeti Helu (Newington, NSW)
Newington prop Opeti Helu almost single-handedly kept Australia in the match with several barnstorming runs at tough moments against the Kiwis and was awarded the Bronze Boot for his efforts. Although the Australian scrum struggled, Helu was outstanding around the park and will be an exciting prospect with a little more set piece coaching.
Will Eadie (Gregory Terrace, QLD)
Gregory Terrace winger Will Eadie scored six tries in four matches on tour and was consistently one of Australia’s best. Eadie has plenty of pace and skill and knows how to find the try line. A hat trick against Fiji Schools was a highlight.
Sunia Finefeuiaki (Marcellin, VIC)
Victorian backrower Sunia Finefeuiaki didn’t have his best game against New Zealand, but the powerful No.8 was arguably Australia’s best on tour. Finefeuiaki looked comfortable at both No.6 and No.8 and bent the line almost every time he touched the ball.
Ryan Lonergan (Trinity, ACT)
Scrumhalf Ryan Lonergan showed why the Brumbies signed him to a professional contract before finishing school with a strong showing against New Zealand. Lonergan provided terrific service, allowing Australia to attack wide channels off the ruck and box kicked well to relieve pressure.
Hunter Paisami (Pakenham, VIC)
Victorian centre Hunter Paisami saved his best game for last and was brilliant against New Zealand. Paisami showed speed and flair to score an impressive individual try early in the second half and swung momentum in Australia’s favour with a huge hit late in the match.
Matthew McTaggart (Joeys, NSW)
Joeys fullback Matthew McTaggart was solid all tour and had moments of brilliance against New Zealand. McTaggert showed great skill to put Yirribi Jaffer-Williams in space and impressive speed to score a crucial second half try. If he can add a little side, McTaggart will be one to watch.
Harry Plummer (New Zealand)
It was almost painful to watch just how good New Zealand flyhalf Harry Plummer was against Australia, particularly in a near perfect first half performance. Plummer showed poise and maturity well beyond his age and will most likely cause Australian rugby fans headaches for many years to come.