NRHC got off to a fast start against Marlborough M1, with both sides creating opportunities in an end-to-end opening spell. It was NRHC who struck first, however, following some excellent passing down the right-hand side. Franklin found space before squaring the ball across the face of goal, where birthday boy Spils arrived to slide it past the keeper and put NRHC ahead.

Marlborough responded by converting a penalty corner to bring the scores level at 1-1. Both teams continued to push for a winner, creating plenty of chances at either end, but neither could find the finishing touch, leaving the game all square.

Goals: Splis
Assist: Franklin