Two closely contested semi-finals that were decided in the final minutes, a brawl and unsportsmanlike behaviour marked the BSP National Schools Rugby XV Championship U18 boys division on Thursday.

Wesley College snatched a 27-21 victory over Leififi College with three tries going to 14-year-old wonder prop Afereti Milo, who was not only a powerhouse but was used as a kicker to find touch for penalties and scored all the tries.

It was Leififi who went ahead 7-0, however, Wesley College hit back with two tries to lead 12-7 at half-time. After the breather, Wesley College scored again and kicked a penalty to lead 20-7.

Leififi were more organised with their play with Wesley relying on their defence and speed to make most of the counters.

Constant pressure by Leififi College saw them back in the lead 21-20. With the clock running out, Wesley College turned the momentum on with Milo breaking three tackles and crashing over with two players in tow to give the winning try.

The match was marred after the final whistle when Leififi College supporters clashed with Wesley College supporters.

However, quick work by the Wesley College security personnel calmed the situation with police aiding them.

Not very sportsmanlike

The second semi-final was also a nail biter with Palauli College from Savaii clinching the game with a last-minute try over Leulumoega Fou College.

It was the last play of the game and Leulumoega led Palauli 20-15. The Savaii boys had last possession and any mistake would mean an end to their dreams of playing in the finals.

Palauli were parked on the Leulumoega five-metre line. After constant pick and drives, the ball was swung to the right. Having the numbers on the openside, had Palauli going in for a try that levelled the game.

All the pressure was on the Palauli flyhalf who made no mistakes and slotted the ball between the posts, booking a place in the final for the Savaii team.

While there were no fights, there were some Leulumoega players who refused to shake the hands of their opponents after the match. This display of unsportsmanlike behaviour was called out by the announcer.

Unstoppable

Aana No.1 College had no answer for the unstoppable Itu O Tane College U18 girls in the second semi-final. Itu O Tane won the match 34-10.

The Savaii girls were almost scoring at will, and every play they did, easily gained 20 metres in advantage. The team combined well and easily cruised through the semi-final to book a spot in the final.

Itu O Tane coach Leati Timua said matches were tough. She said they were better prepared.

“Many people do not know this, but as a coach, every game is analysed and the players are told of the analysis. This I believe, helps the players to know what they have been doing wrong and what needs to be done,” she said.

“We are very technical in our approach and also in training. We work to improve individual player skills and also use that to select the right team to take the field.

“I saw the Manusina sevens coaches watching the girls playing, and I am hoping that some of them do get selected to be part of the squad.”