This was the game that was always going to be difficult as it was the traditional game against the old foe of AGS for the Challenge Shield. The team was at full strength with all players available to play.
The game started with King’s playing well with an attacking intent and good control over possession. This allowed probing attacks to be made into the AGS defense. After 3 minutes, the AGS defense conceded a Penalty Corner (PC) but King’s could not convert it. However, at the 5 minute mark, they conceded another PC and a strong drag flick from Aiden Fraser saw King’s go ahead.
The pace of the game was quicker than the team had previously played and the next phase of the game saw both teams trying to get their attacking games going. King’s conceded a PC at the 12 minute mark and AGS scored from a well-planned move. At the 15 minute mark, another PC was taken by AGS and they scored again using the same move. The rest of the first half saw no scoring but plenty of skilled play from both teams.
Half time score- King’s College: 1 Auckland Grammar School: 2
After discussing at half-time the need to continue the intent and skill shown in the first half, as well as trusting the game plan that was working, both teams attacked well when in possession but both defense systems shut those forays down. King’s had three PC opportunities and AGS had four. None of these were able to be converted into goals, with strong defensive efforts from both teams nullifying the attacks that were being produced. A very even second half where no goals were conceded by either team.
Full time score- King’s College: 1 Auckland Grammar School: 2
From a spectator point of view, this was an intense, highly skilled, fast paced game played between two very good teams. It was always going to come down to who could convert their scoring opportunities better and AGS went one better than King’s. AGS retain the Challenge Shield and move onto the Auckland final against Saint Kentigern College next week.
King’s will play Mount Albert Grammar next, with the winner going onto the Super City competition.
Thank you for the fantastic support during the game - it was much appreciated by the team.
Kerry Baker
Manager
