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Water Polo Night Series. Kearsney Edge Hilton in Thrilling Night Series Clash.
Kearsney College delivered a determined and hard-fought display in Round 5 of the Night Series, clinching an impressive 11–9 victory over Hilton in a gripping encounter that went down to the wire.
The opening chukka set the tone, with both sides trading blows in a fast-paced 3–3 quarter. Hilton struck first from the penalty spot, but Kearsney responded immediately through Max Mills. James Whatmore and Oliver Ludwig added composed finishes to keep the scores level in a breathless start.
The second chukka remained fiercely competitive. Mills converted from extra man after strong build-up play, while Thomas Aylward and Thomas Francke found the net from action to send the teams into half-time locked at 6–6. Defensive grit from Christiano Sandri and crucial steals helped Kearsney absorb Hilton’s pressure during this tense middle period.
Intensity rose further in the third chukka. Francke converted from extra man to edge Kearsney ahead, only for Hilton to respond twice and snatch a narrow lead. Francke struck again with a composed finish to level matters at 8–8, setting up a dramatic final quarter.
Kearsney showed maturity and composure in the closing stages. Aylward broke the deadlock before Francke added another from action, capitalising on disciplined build-up play. Hilton converted a late penalty to close the gap to 10–9, but Dru Mills sealed the win with a decisive strike, assisted by Francke, to secure the 11–9 triumph.
Goalkeeper Rourke Stacey produced vital saves at key moments, while defensive blocks and steals across the pool underscored a collective effort.
This was a resilient Night Series performance — composed under pressure, clinical in decisive moments, and reflective of a side growing in confidence and cohesion as the tournament gathers pace.
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https://www.kearsney.com/college/
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