Ashburton College players try to clear the ball from a ruck during their game against Waitaki Boys’ High School at the weekend. Photo Linda ClarkeConfidence is growing in the Ashburton College First XV camp after a good showing against Waitaki Boys’ High School on Saturday.

The game was a friendly as both sides prepare for secondary school competitions starting early May and AshColl coach Blair O’Donnell said it was a good chance to test fitness and combinations.

His side lost narrowly to Timaru Boys’ High School in an earlier warmup game and against Waitaki Boys was right in the game until the final stanza, losing 35-15.

O’Donnell said the squad was a mix of experienced players and relative youngsters, who needed time to learn about the game at First XV level.

The side was light on older players so there was an additional focus on building depth for future years.

Among the players who earned praise from the coach on Saturday were Year 13s James Forbes and birthday boy Elama Touli.

O’Donnell said Forbes, who played at second five on Saturday, was a versatile and determined player who could fill any spot in the back line.

Touli is more familiar at No 8 but played prop against Waitaki and stood out with several barnstorming runs.

The tight forward is part of the Crusader Knights wider training group and O’Donnell said he was an exciting prospect.

The whole backline had talent to burn and he was looking forward to seeing them in action, he said.

“This whole team is a great group of boys and we’ve been working on a new game plan. I’m impressed with their ability to learn and get the younger players up to speed.”

AshColl starts its UC Championship campaign on May 5.

By Linda Clarke © The Ashburton Guardian - 9 April 2018