The Australian Schools & U18s side commenced their three game tour of New Zealand on a cool and windy day at Hillcrest High School in Hamilton against Fijian Schools winning, 39 – 7.

Australia demonstrated resolute defence in the opening few minutes as the Fijians which contained a number of very big bodies came out on the charge. 

Australia counted with their own fluid attack demonstrating great offload ability; this created numerous opportunities for the Aussies, the first of which came midway through the half as Number Seven Will Roach crossed the line. 

Further tries in the first half to Glen Vaihu and Joesph Suaalii left the half time score at 17-0

The second half open with an early try to Vaihu, followed by tries to Suaalii and Flook. Vaihu capped off a fine game with a third try to record a hat trick.

The second half showed spirited play from both teams with Fiji scored in the 71st minute to create a final scoreline of 39-7

As the Australian side moves onto their next two game against New Zealand Schools Barbarians and New Zealand Schools they will have to focus on cutting down on the number of turnovers.

Score:

Australian Schools and U18s – 39

Tries: Vaihu 3; Suaalii 2; Roach, Flook tries

Goals: Pasitoa 2

Fiji Schools – 7

Tries 1

Goals 1