8 June 2015 Lincoln wins Hawkins Cup

Tenacious defence when down to 13 men proved to be key to Lincoln University winning their third consecutive Hawkins Cup in the Christchurch Metro rugby competition on Saturday.

With two players sinbinned they had to defend their line again and again against a determined New Brighton attack, to prevail 26-15.

Coach John Haggart described the resilience his side showed in defence when their numbers were down as a turning point.

He says the game plan was to play the game at speed and move New Brighton around the field. However his side were behind at half–time.

“Second half I simply mentioned to them that we had shift the ball a bit wider and hang onto the ball for longer periods and hold our defensive line if they had more numbers.”

Lincoln fullback Caleb Makene had a perfect day with the boot and scored 21 of his side’s points as he also crossed for a try.

The side finished the round unbeaten and now moves into the trophy round. They will be hoping the indomitable defence which characterised their win will see them through to claiming the overall competition honours this year.