Shield heading to Waikato
IN many sports, a combination of scoring points, not conceding many, maintaining possession and staying disciplined are keys to winning a match.
Taranaki took a different approach in the opening 40 minutes of its Ranfurly Shield defence against Waikato on Sunday, and it did not go well.
For the third time in a row, Taranaki’s reign with the Ranfurly Shield was ended by the Mooloos, who claimed an impressive 3319 win to hoist the Log of Wood. There was only one positive for the few fans at Yarrow Stadium in New Plymouth — it was a beautiful day, so you could see the mountain.
The visitors stunned Taranaki with five tries in the first half, taking a 337 lead in what was their best 40 minutes of football this season. While Taranaki gave away penalties and coughed up the ball, Wai kato remained disciplined and did not miss an opportunity to strike.
It held a convincing 26point lead at the break, but by no means a safe one.
When Taranaki won the Shield against Canterbury last year, the Bulls came back from a 317 deficit and after the break, Taranaki looked set on repeating that feat.
Manasa Mataele and Seta Tamanivalu ran in early tries to close the gap to 14.
While Waikato’s attack tapered off in the second half as Taranaki lifted, the visitors’ defence stayed solid. Taranaki had the bulk of possession in the second half but trouble penetrating Waikato’s defensive wall, which held strong despite its increasing penalty count.
The sleepy start ultimately cost the host, who lost both the Shield and touch with the premiership leaders.
Waikato now has the looming possibility of holding the Ran furly Shield for the shortest time in history; its first defence will be against Hawke’s Bay on Thursday.
Should Waikato retain the shield, Southland will get a challenge on September 29.
After that, Otago plays Waikato on October 13, which could also double as a challenge.
But, for now, Waikato can celebrate its 11th reign as shield holder.
A Wellington beat North Harbour 3523. — NZME