2021 Blood Match
Both sides are set for another big contest for the coveted Leo O'Malley Trophy, affectionately known as 'The Peanut', the big prize in the annual interschool betwen the St Kevin's College and Waitaki Boys' High School First XV's known famously within North Otago as the 'Blood Match'.
It's a challenge that has been played annually between the two local secondary schools since 1934, with only one year in 1938 where the contest wasn't held. It's a match that still holds great value among the rugby community, and one that instills school pride. For the winners of the contest, bragging rights remain in place until the next challenge the following year.
In all, 86 matches have been played, Waitaki winning 56 times, St Kevin's 25 times, with 5 matches ending in a draw.
We caught up with the coaches of their respective schools to get an insight into what this match means to both schools, and the wider community.
Mark Wilson - Waitaki Boys' Coach
What does this game (Blood Match) mean to Waitaki Boys?
Its a very important day and game on the calendar and caps off a great week of competition.
Does the approach to this game change, compared to a regular competition game?
Not from a preparation point of view no its more about enjoying the week.
Looking at last year's result, what are you hoping for in 2021?
Every year and teams are different so we just want to preform to our own expectations.
What does this game mean to the community?
I think its eagerly awaited and creates friendly rivalry and banter.
On a personal level, what does it mean for you to coach a son in a Blood Match?
I'm very proud of him and hope he enjoys the occasion.
Score prediction?
Very close win to waitaki.
Justin Fowler - St Kevin's Coach
What does this game (Blood Match) mean to St Kevin's?
Certainly the most important game of the year! Theres a lot of expectations from the school community that we do well in the game, it’s the only game that I get asked about from former students is how are going to do against Waitaki this year? Definitely a special occasion that’s been going on 90 odd years!
Does the approach to this game change, compared to a regular competition game?
No not really we don’t think about this game until the start of this week. Whilst it’s the back of our minds we don’t put too much emphasis until we get to this point now. I think that comes from experience in the past that boys are thinking about it too early so as coaches it’s important we don’t focus on it too much until the week of the game.
Looking at last year's result, what are you hoping for in 2021?
I’ll just be happy with a victory by a point! Last year was special but I’m expecting it to be a very close game this year.
What does this game mean to the community?
It’s a real focal point and it’s a great community day! It’s played in good spirits and it’s a really good day for the community to come together and watch some young men play some good footy!
On a personal level, what does it mean for you to coach a son in a Blood Match?
It’s pretty special to have them in the squad this year, the whole team has worked hard and come together well but it’s a great opportunity for them to be apart of something special.
Score prediction?
25-24 To SKC
