First International Game

This is James. Yesterday was the first of our two games, played against the kids on Mololo Island. The group went over on a boat, and had to jump out into the water. The day started with a Kava ceremony with the village Elders. Reynard, Colsey and Dennis had the honour of recieving it the proper way. afterwards we were entertained by dancing from the school children. Still, we hadnt met the other team and had no idea about their size or skill. soon after, we ran on and met the opposition. they were mainly small but they were lightning fast and had great ball skills. we kicked off with the ball going out on the full and were set for a scrum, but just as we were on the back foot, we won the scrum and started off a great set of plays. the backs ran well and made great tackles in defence and the forwards dominated in the rucks and mauls, but soon afterwards we started to feel the intense heat. we got a quick try early on, scored in the corner by Marcus but missed the conversion. the crowd erupted, most of the loudest cheerers were the Fijians. the field was bumpy and had bindis everywere but te hard hits were still made and another try came our way, scored our Kiwi recruit Tomas. The conversion was missed, but we were definately ahead. after half time, we were pooped. Lefty had already spewed up and lots were ready to finish, but we pushed on. the Fiji side scored a great try by their swift flyhalf and the game was close again. Marcus scored one more, which put us ahead, and finally, the bell rang! we had won our game and the crowd once again went wild. final score was 15-5.

presents were given out afterwards, and just as we were wrapping up, Chris Butler decided he'd get a photo or two so climbed up on a chair..... and fell straight through it! an international incident. a very rough trip home, dads thinking they'd push the kids out of the zippy boat so they got home first and ended up breaking down twice and getting soaked.
we celebrated all night!