Lions make League Grand Final

By Frank Neill

The Wainuiomata Lions have qualified for this year’s Wellington Rugby League Grand Final following a stunning semi-final victory over reigning champions Whiti Te R taki on 22 July.

After leading 10-6 at half time, the Lions went on to win the match, played at Frederick Wise Park, 16-10.

The victory came following a tense period late in the game where two yellow cards in quick succession saw the Lions reduced to 11 players for eight minutes.

At the time the Lions held a slender 12-10 lead with just over 10 minutes to play.

One of the players who spent 10 minutes in the sin bin was co-captain John Tahana Wharepapa-Rawiri.

When John came back onto the field he was to play an important role in the Lions final try scored in the closing stages of the match.

John and co-captain Ulai Oti-Lahood once again led from the front in the semi-final –just as they have done all season.

Wainuiomata Community Market

Saturday the 29th July, at the Wainuiomata Library in Queen Street, from 9am till 3pm. All welcome. Love

Lokeni Saumokia about to crash over to open the scoring for the

The two co-captains have been hugely influencial for the Lions throughout 2023, leading by example.

Three players scored tried for the Lions –brothers Lokeni and David Saumolia, and Bree Henderson.

Te Aorere Wanoa kicked two conversions.

No one player stood out for the home team in its victory over Whiti Te R , with the team collectively playing an outstanding match.

This year sees the Wainuiomata Lions qualifying for the Grand Final for the first