Massey end long drought

between Manukura wing attack Jamie Manuel and springheeled goal shoot Emma-may Murray-fifita clicked as the game went on.

The third quarter was even, but then Massey looked like they had the game won when they were leading 48-41 midway through the fourth quarter.

But the classy Manukura outfit, with their speedy centre passes and circle feeding, can never be counted out and they came back to lead by one going into the final two minutes.

Massey battled away, though, and Seymour slotted the goal to lock it up at 53-53, sending it to two seven-minute periods of extra time. Massey were the better team in the two extra quarters and nipped in front by four goals and held the lead until the end.

The Massey defensive end put in a massive shift with goal defence Hapai Selby-law and wing defence Olivia Tilyard having standout games.

Ferris, Bignall and Layce Walker were all ferocious on defence for Manukura.

Dannevirke won the premier two final, beating Manukura Black A2 35-31, and Manukura Red won the premier one secondary schools final, beating Palmerston North Girls’ High School 46-19.

PHOTOS: MURRAY WILSON/FAIRFAX NZ The jubilant Massey team after winning their first premier title in quarter of a century.

Massey captain Laura Lobb, centre, looks to pass while under scrutiny from her Manukura Black opposite Sheridan Bignall in the premier club final.