Huge day for Tawa and Norths

Steve So’oialo says capping off his rugby playing days by winning the Jubilee Cup matches anything he’s done during his long career.

The inspirational Tawa halfback scored a try and his sharp play and leadership earned him the Jim Brown Memorial Medal for player of the day as his side overcame OrientalRongotai 26-21 in the Jubilee Cup final at the Hutt Rec on Sunday.

It was Tawa’s first premier title since the club formed in 1947. This season they also won the Swindale Shield, Andy Leslie Trophy and Bill Brien Challenge Shield.

‘‘You might say it’s just a club final, but it still gets you,’’ So’oialo said.

‘‘It’s a special day. We had passion and control out there.’’

Meanwhile, the Perenara family had double reason for celebration on Sunday.

Northern United halfback TJ Perenara was named in the All Blacks training squad and Norths won the Hardham Cup

platform to build on for 2014.

Champagne time: Norths skipper Henry Smith is all smiles as the champagne flies after the presentation of the Hardham Cup.

Photos: PETER MCDONALD Winning feeling: Tawa captain Taniela Koroi and coach Matt Boyd hold the Jubilee Cup aloft.