New Zealand Herald's Adrian Hyland finds an inpressive standard of grass-roots rugby in New Zealand's schools.
"About 11 minutes are left on the clock and Mt Albert Grammar, who have just missed their sixth place kick, are finding it hard to put Hamilton Boys away in last year's school rugby showpiece, the national final.
"They may have scored three tries and done it playing fluid, largely error-free rugby, with width and intelligence, but they trail 15-17. In the defending champions they face not only one of the few teams that outweigh them, but also a team well-versed in the art of securing possession and winding the clock down.
"From the restart MAGS fullback Albert Nikoro leaps and gathers cleanly, then accelerates into the heart of the Hamilton defence. His forwards swarm around him as they have done all game, the ball is recycled quickly, and the process begins again.
"MAGS edge forward, their runners targeting the fringes and eliminating defenders, until lock Sean Brookman is turned in a tackle and goes to ground facing the wrong way. He twists himself so his team-mates can access the ball, but in a high-tempo game like this a few seconds are precious. The momentum is lost ..."
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