Fourth consecutive Colts rugby title for Hamilton Marist

Despite the fast pace of the game, the score remained tied at 0-1 for much of the first half until Hamilton Marist’s energetic halfback Halen King executed a strategic 50/22 kick.

This created a lineout close to Hautapu’s try-line, leading to a powerful drive in which hooker Marshal Sheehan scored.

The conversion was missed by the competition’s top scorer, the usually reliable Levi Cressy-Baggott.

Hautapu was not to be deterred and responded with persistent attacks, which earned him a penalty. Fullback Matthew Christensen converted the ball and it became 5-3 for Hamilton Marist.

The battle continued and Cressy-Baggott converted a penalty to make the half-time score 8-3 in favour of the visitors.

The second half mirrored the intensity of the first. Early penalties against Hautapu for ruck infringements allowed Cressy-Baggott to extend Hamilton Marist’s lead to 11-3.

However, Hautapu’s determination was evident as Beau Wallis scored a crucial try and Christenson added the extra points, closing the gap to 11-10.

The match saw a mixed scoreline, with Marist’s Wesley Curulala breaking through with a spectacular long-range effort, which was again converted by Cressy-Baggott.

But Hautapu wasn’t done yet as captain Jeroslav Tamala fired over the goal line from close range after a fine pop pass from halfback Te Taiwhanga.

Thanks to Christenson’s conversion they only managed to get one point further: 18-17.

Both coaching teams would be forgiven if they had no fingernails left in the final minutes.

Marist extended their lead thanks to a brilliant team performance, highlighted by a decisive try from captain King from a superb inside line, following a fine counter-attack from powerful winger Taine Cantwell.

Cressy-Baggott’s conversion made the score 25-17.

This victory not only confirmed Marist’s dominance in the Colts competition, but also provided a classic final that both teams and spectators will remember for the sheer competitive spirit and quality rugby.

Hamilton Marist’s Cressy-Baggott completed the 2024 season on a high note by ending the year as the league’s top scorer with 157 points, while Pirongia’s Jason Hill finished the season as the league’s top scorer with 16 five-pointers to his name.