PHOTO/JADE CVETKOV
Lance Buchanan had a strong game as Greytown powered their way to a home semifinal in the Tui Cup. CHRIS COGDALE talked with the Greytown hooker.
Lining up the direction of a throw-in at lineout is second nature to Lance Buchanan who spends his working week lining up the layout of water pipes for City Care.
When he’s not up to his neck in drains, or with his head buried in scrums and rucks, the 26-year-old loves to spend time with his wife Roxanna and stepsons Oliver [14] and Xavier [6], or dabbling in a bit of hunting or fishing with mates.
Rugby has been a big part of Buchanan’s life since he first laced up his boots for the Masterton Red Star Under-10s, initially as a No 8, before moving into the front row in the Under-13s.
Buchanan’s talent was recognised with selection in Wairarapa-Bush representative Under-11, Under-12, Under-13, and Under-18 teams.
After leaving Makoura College, where he played First XV rugby, Buchanan joined the senior ranks at Masterton Red Star until the club withdrew from the premier club competition.
To keep playing at premier level, Buchanan then joined Greytown, where he has been for about seven years, and it’s a decision he doesn’t regret.
“It’s just a good team culture and a good environment,” he said.
“I love the club.”
Buchanan said he was enjoying playing in a strong front row with outstanding props Lewis Bush and Chris Hemi, and that the two props were “characters” off the field as well.
Greytown’s 26-18 win over East Coast sealed a home semifinal against Eketahuna, in what could be the last game at Greytown’s traditional home venue, with the ground’s future up in the air because of a potential sale of the land by Greytown Trust Lands Trust.
“I hope not. I don’t know why, but I just enjoy it down there, and the community gets in there right behind the team. It’s good.”
As for making the final Buchanan was to the point, “bloody oath”.
After the rugby season, Buchanan will pack the fishing gear and head to Lake Ferry.
“That’s where I go the most, and hopefully I’ll get a few snappers.
“I don’t know if they’re there that much, but I’ve heard they’ve been catching them a bit down there this year.”
- The Best and Fairest will wrap up this Saturday, with the last round of games involving all eight teams to be played.
