The Rosmini College 1st XV showed immense heart and grit in a dramatic North Harbour 1A Championship Final

In an absolute epic at North Harbour Stadium, the Rosmini College 1st XV showed immense heart and grit, leaving everything on the field in a dramatic 45-43 North Harbour 1A Championship Final.

Coming into the decider tied one-a-piece in the season series - and carrying serious momentum after winning their second regular-season meeting - the boys in red and blue looked poised to break Westlake’s dominant reign over the competition.

Westlake struck early in the opening half, but Rosmini never flinched, responding immediately to level the scores in a breathless stretch of play. Westlake wing Flynn Houlbrook proved a constant thorn in Rosmini's side with a damaging first-half hat-trick, yet our boys kept pace through the sheer power of their forward pack. The lead changed hands repeatedly in a ferocious opening period, locking the scoreboard at 26-26 at the break.

Rosmini’s forward pack set a dominant platform, led with unyielding fire and passion by captain Brodie Tofilau, who rallied his troops and sent the red-and-blue faithful into a frenzy. The tight five made their presence felt on the scoresheet, with hooker Ethan Bates crossing twice from powerful mauls and lock Luchian Opperman muscling over for a double - including a monster, powerful run where he burst through the defence to dot down.

Directing the play, first five-eight Kayden Godbold delivered a steady performance from the tee, slotting five conversions and a penalty to keep Rosmini firmly in the contest.

A brief lapse in concentration midway through the second half allowed Westlake to strike for two quick tries, building a dangerous lead. Refusing to take it lying down, Rosmini launched a fierce late rally. Halfback Elijah Wharepouri sniped through for a crucial try before centre Lachlan Murray fought his way over the line to bring Rosmini within striking distance at 45-43.

Drama peaked in the dying minutes when Houlbrook was sent to the sin bin, leaving Westlake with just 14 men and opening a golden opportunity for Rosmini to strike a final, decisive blow. With under a minute on the clock, Rosmini hunted furiously for the winning score in a chaotic, nerve-shredding climax. Westlake managed to scramble desperately in defence and hold on as time ran out, denying Rosmini that final miracle to break the eight-year hoodoo Westlake have held in the 1A finals.

While the final whistle brought gut-wrenching heartbreak, the courage, resilience, and pride shown by our boys in red and blue was undeniable; they left absolutely everything on the pitch and made the school community immensely proud.

By Sara Prendergast

Photos by Judith Morrogh

2026 1st XV Squad: