Toa bag first senior club title since 2005 in win over Rahui

RUGBY: Toa have won their first Ramsbottom Cup Horowhenuaka piti senior title since 2005 in a thrilling final against Rahui.

Toa got out to a fast start, leading 19-3 midway through the first half at the Levin Domain on Saturday.

Rahui fought to take the lead 20-19 and control the middle period of the game before Toa took the last 20 minutes to win 41-32.

Toa coach Ritchie Wineera was pleased to get the win. ‘‘I’m really stoked for our club. It was a great final to be a part of.

‘‘Rahui played really well and never let their foot off the gas even up until the last minute of the game when they scored. We have been lucky enough to top the competition table all season and I’m really proud of the way our guys handled the pressure of coming in as favourites.’’

Wineera also credited leaders within his team and their depth. ‘‘Everyone from 1-22 stepped up and that’s what we asked as coaches coming into the finals.

‘‘Our leadership group on the field was outstanding. Our captain TJ Fermanis led by example as always and our fullback Randall Bishop controlled everything from the back well.

‘‘We have a great mix of experienced and younger players and I’m looking forward to see our younger players develop . . . ’’

In the senior reserve final, Levin College Old Boys capitalised on their chances to take a 35-3 win against Foxton.

Foxton brought physicality and never backed down, but were unable to cross the try line.

The final score didn’t reflect the closeness of the game. Foxton threatened to score on many occasions but COB held them out.

The win capped off an unbeaten season as well as securing back-to-back Bill Muir Cup senior reserve titles for COB.