Mark Pirie

poet - writer - editor - publisher

She's in

the classic rugby mould

of backs who

are also sprinters.

Fit, speedy

and powerful players

who traverse the

touchline, midfield

and corners of the field

looking

for tries and work.

This is half her nous

as with

athletic grace

she

catches balls,

passes

with ease,

and stepping,

jinks

past defenders,

a deft skill-set

always

knowing

the line

to run.

(Written after Portia dotted down eight times for the NZ Black Ferns vs. Hong Kong, Women's World Cup 2017)