Under-16s from both the Maitland and Bunnan clubs took on the tourists in a couple of warm-up matches at the Maitland polocrosse grounds on Saturday before the two international under-16s teams faced off on Sunday.

The Kiwis claimed that match, with a dominant 20-11 victory.

Former Maitland Polocrosse Club member Arch Anderson, who organised the visit from the internationals, said it was a good experience for both the local and visiting players.

“New Zealand is trying to further their juniors and when we were in New Zealand last year we though Maitland would be the perfect place to bring them,” he said.

“Maitland players will take part in a reciprocal tour next year. The New Zealand riders have a different style of horsework while the USA riders are similar in style, although the sport is much younger in that country.”

Aside from the international bouts, the weekend also saw 39 NSW teams travel to Maitland for a normal competition.

Cassilis beat Maitland 11-9 in the men’s A-grade final, with Maitland’s Phil Hvirf named the best number two and Graham Wilson the best number three.

Maitland’s women’s team snuck home with a late goal to beat Quirindi 1-0 in their A-grade match, with April Leggett named the best number two.

Maitland teams also took out the men’s B-grade title and the A-grade junior event.

Bree Thompson was awarded the Champion Junior (under-16s) Stock Horse while Sally Thompson scored the title of the Champion Junior (under-16s) Player.