Waitemata v Ponsonby

from the Sidelines

Waitemata No 1, 18 April 2026

From the kickoff, we created the first of many mistakes that allowed Ponsonby to get field position, and from another error off the back of the scrum within two minutes, we were behind.

To be fair, after that we attacked the line and all but scored; however, a knock-on or a penalty undid all that work.

Then Keenan Tauta-Selu, one of nine players making their premier debuts, raced 50 metres to score in the corner, giving a glimmer of hope to the loyal Waitemata fans who turned out in good numbers.

After a period of intense attack, our Moana Pasifika lock Ale Aho scored, and this showed we would be competitive with top sides like Ponsonby.

The game steadied, and at halftime we were only 24–14 down (after Ponsonby had just scored a converted try on halftime).

The second stanza saw the teams fairly even, and it was only late in the game, after spending time on defence, that Ponsonby broke through with a brace of tries.

The final score of 48–17 probably reflected the state of the game.

Areas that really need tidying up are lineouts and scrums, where Ponsonby dominated possession. The lineout in particular folded badly, as calls were made incorrectly or throws failed to hit the mark.

However, there was some really good stuff out there. The No. 10, Matt Dillon, is going to develop into something special going forward. He has a good boot, and if he can work on finding the touchline rather than peeling off extra yards, it will benefit the team.

The loose forwards were very good. The No. 7 looked like he will only get better, and the co-captain at No. 8 showed some real grunt.

Overall, the defensive line held well, and that was a major improvement on the pre-season games.

The supporters gathered in the Centurions all had a good day—thanks to those boys for the refreshments.

It was great to see All Black great Sir Bryan Williams there supporting his club, and although he has had health issues, by all accounts he enjoyed his day.

This week it’s Manukau away—a real tough nut—and Williams Park is never an easy place to get a result.

As long as we can improve on this past week’s effort, there is more to come this season.

I also watched a bit of Prem Development, who went down to a very experienced Ponsonby lineup, and the Under 21s had a win over Eden 29–19. With that start, it may keep us in the mix this season.

Halfback Cooper Sinton in pursuit.

A bit of ”how’s ya father” going on between what looks like the two hookers in the background.

The great Sir Bryan Williams, watching his beloved Ponsonby. Always good to see him at his second favourite club, Waitemata.