Friday 31 July 2026
The Boys’ Hockey XI continued their run of success with a very close win over Auckland Grammar School. Two penalty corners from Tarquin Johnson (Year 13, School) in the 4th quarter was the difference between the teams.
Typically the first game back after the holidays is one where the side struggles to reach the standard set from earlier in the season. Auckland Grammar were highly motivated for this game as they needed at least a draw to stay in contention for a final spot in the Greater Auckland competition. With a couple players out with injury it was a good time to test the squad depth and congratulations to Jory Li (Year 9, Peart) who made his First XI debut.
For the majority of the game Grammar definitely had greater desire and with the majority of the possession in the King’s half, looked the more likely to score. Ben Woodhams (Year 13, Selwyn) in goal made some outstanding saves to keep King’s in the game, and although Grammar made numerous circle penetrations, the defence didn’t concede a single penalty corner. At times the game became heated, with two players from each team receiving a green card (2 minutes off) as the pressure mounted towards the end of the game. After a robust team talk before the 4th quarter, King’s started to exert control — showing more determination in holding possession and patience in the build up. This paid off when Charlie Middleton (Year 13, Averill) made a decisive run down the left hand side of the circle and won a penalty corner, which Tarquin Johnson converted at the second attempt. With a goal down, Grammar had to now chase the game and opportunities were more forthcoming. From a foray into the Grammar circle, King’s won another penalty corner with 5 minutes left on the clock and Tarquin Johnson got his second goal with an excellent flick.
From a King’s perspective it was a very scrappy game and the result could easily have gone the other way. Again, it is stark reminder that games can be very fickle and come Rankin Cup (National Tournament) every encounter is a must-win.
Next Wednesday the side play Rangitoto College at King’s College.