Pirates Gold 18, Pioneer 6...1983

Pirates Gold played well to beat Pioneer,18-6, in an entertaining game at Oreti Park. However, the score did not reflect the fine Pioneer effort which comprised of rugged forward play and fleet footed backline movements.  The Gore team unfortunately could not finish its moves.  Fullback, Mark McCarthy had a good game posting all his team's points.
Pirates, Malcolm Dewe, was in top goal-kicking form with three penalty goals and a conversion and Lyall McKenzie also showed style with a 35 metre goal which put his team ahead 6-3 at half time.
In the forward exchanges both teams had an even share of possession, although the big Pioneer lock Alan, Byrne won a wealth of clean lineout ball.
The Pioneer half back Murray Heath, played another reliable game and the backs, especially, John Kubala must have pleased spectators  with his determined runs down the right wing.
After applying pressure for more than 10 minutes on the Pirates Gold line midway through the second half, Pioneer lost concentration, and the Pirates Gold backline was allowed to run off with the only try of the game to Casey Hughes.
Pirates big locks, Don Sutherland and Paul Radka were not able to take a feast of lineout ball, but shone in their support play in the loose.
Although Pioneer did not score a try it continued to apply pressure in the second half and had the last say with a penalty goal.
PIRATES:
Casey Hughes try, Malcolm Dewe (3) PG (1) CON, Lyall McKenzie (1) PG
PIONEER:
Mark McCarthy (2) PG
REFEREE
Neil Popham