GPS were too good for CAS in both the first XV and second XV fixtures on Tuesday evening in Sydney. 

In two fairly scrappy affairs, GPS won the opening fixture 21-7 before defeating CAS 40-26 in the first XV match. 

A number of individuals from all four sides stood out though and put their names forward for a spot in the two NSW U18s sides set to play QLD U18s in Brisbane on Saturday July 1. 

Following another day of trials featuring all school associations, as well as NSW Country and Sydney Juniors’ sides, NSW U18s coaches will announce the squads for the first of two interstate fixtures this year. 

Standout Performers

Hadley Tonga – GPS I/Kings

As he’s shown week in, week out through the opening six rounds of the GPS competition, Hadley Tonga is too big, too strong and too fast for schoolboy rugby. It’s why Rugby Australia were so keen to sign Tonga to a 3-year deal that will see him join the Aussie 7s squad after graduating. 

Hugo Orpin – GPS II/Shore

While Hwi Sharples and Orly Hatton-Ward both impressed at No.9 in the first XV fixture, Hugo Orpin won the earlier fixture for GPS II with two darts from the base of the ruck. He scored off his first attempt, set up a try in his second and kicked three from three from the kicking tee in a super impressive performance. 

Sam Niulala – CAS II/Trinity 

Arguably the standout performer of the evening, Niulala dominated the opening match with his size and skill, then made a similar impact off the bench for CAS I. The Trinity forward is a strong ball carrier, has great all round skills and a very big motor. If anything, he possibly overplayed his hand a little as he tried to bring his side back into the match, which cost him a yellow card. In terms of impact, effort and ability through, Niulala was the pick of the forwards. 

Lopina Ata – GPS I/Newington

Newington hooker Lopina Ata is a serious talent and dominated the opening 20 minutes of last night’s first XV match. While the lineout, with limited preparation, wasn’t perfect, Ata’s impact around the park was second to none. 

Jono Ryan – CAS I/Knox 

Lining up against the form player of the GPS competition in Kings’ No.7 Austin Durbridge, Knox flanker Jono Ryan arguably outplayed his rival, limiting the impact Durbridge had at the breakdown to just one pilfer. That’s something few other No.7s have been able to do all season. Ryan also scored two tries to keep CAS in the match, with his second the pick of the CAS five pointers. 

Liam Grover – GPS I/Riverview 

Grover made a difference every time he touched the ball, scoring one try and setting up another. He’s a seriously smart outside centre, and does all the little things well, like when he attracted two defenders to create space for Hadley Tonga on his outside.