THE Kendall Blues claimed victory on the club’s annual Andy Howe Memorial Day, with a resounding 32-6 win against crosstown rivals the Laurieton Hotel Stingrays on Saturday 28 June.
Known as “Howie’s Day”, this event is held in memory of former Blues player Andrew Howe and holds a special place in the heart of the Kendall community.
Sunday 29 June would have been Andrew’s 36th birthday.
The match itself was a physical and intense battle, with both teams putting up a fierce fight.
Locked in a scoreless deadlock for the majority of the first half it was the Stingrays who managed to put the first points on the board with a successful penalty kick from the boot of Cuban Piper.
However, this lead was only temporary with the Blues quickly hitting back with two quick tries.
First across the line for Kendall was Sam Ylias, closely followed by Daniel Weightman, providing the Blues with an 8-2 lead as the teams went into the sheds.
Following the break Ylias continued to impress, scoring his second try of the match.
This was followed by a successful Jack Chapman conversion, extending Kendall’s lead to 14-2.
The Stingrays responded with a well deserved try from Tyler Gardener, narrowing the gap to 14-6.
However, momentum soon swung back to the Blues.
Jack Chapman found the line twice, successfully converting both of his tries and providing the Blues with a 20 point buffer.
Luke Martin was last to add to the Blues’ try tally and after another successful conversion Kendall came away winners 32-6 on the full time buzzer.
Watching from the sidelines was Andrew’s father, Alan Howe, who reflected on his son’s love for the game and the enduring support from the club and community.
“It has been just over six years now since Andrew passed away,” said Alan.
“He loved his sport and his football and played on the wing here for the Kendall Blues.
“The Club has honoured Andrew with a memorial day and this has helped to support us as a family.
“There is always a rivalry between Laurieton and Kendall.
“It doesn’t matter whether it’s football or cricket it is just there, it’s like watching a State of Origin match ”
The event concluded with the presentation of the Andy Howe Medal, with Sam Ylias being named as 2025 recipient.
By Kim AMBROSE
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