CLUB RUGBY FINALS 2003
NORTHLAND
Hikurangi is the 2003 Northland club champion! Led by first five-eighths Noel Edmonds, who scored 16 points, Hikurangi upset the more favoured Kamo 21-15. Edmonds scored a try, kicked three penalty goals and a conversion. Kamo was hot on attack in the final five minutes, but Hikurangi held on. Centre Eric Abraham was Hikurangi's other try scorer. Kamo made up for that loss with a 31-25 win over Mid Northern in the reserve grade final. Western Sharks pipped Otamatea 14-13 in the plate final while Southern won the promotion relegation game over Whangaruru 27-17 to keep its place in the premier division.
Match details - Club championship final:
Hikurangi 21 (N Edmonds E Abraham tries, Edmonds 3 pen con) Kamo 15 (J Weston L Jones tries, J Guise pen con).
Plate final: Western Sharks 14 (J Fowlie try, R Rowse 3 pen) Otamatea 13 (J Levi try, Sn Kirby 2 pen con).
Promotion-relegation: Southern 27 (S Leota R Smith H Takalua tries, C McKenzie pen 2 con).
Reserve grade final: Kamo 31 (J Mason B Bradburn A MacPherson R Davis tries, Davis pen 4 con) Mid Northern 25 (S Morgan 2 T Francis J Murray tries, M Pinny pen con).
NORTH HARBOUR
Silverdale has made history in the North Harbour by taking out its first premier championship. In an absorbing final, Silverdale got up 25-23 over North Shore. Silverdale trailed 9=14 at halftime, but took the lead going into the final quarter and managed to hold off the opposition. Silverdale had a scare right on time when a dropped goal attempt by Shore five-eighth Justin Poihipi just failed. Hooker Willie Hafu was a stand out player for Silverdale while first fiveeighth Luke McAlister, son the coach Charlie, contributed 17 points from four penalties, a dropped goal and the conversion of Hafu's try. Winger Lingi Taukolo scored Shore's first half try and Willie Burton landed three penalty goals. Silverdale hit the lead for the first time 18 minutes into the second half after Hafu's try but Shore replied with Burton's fifth penalty. Replacement halfback Jonathan Hargreaves landed a dropped goal to put Silverdale ahead then McAlister dropped his goal to increase the margin to five. Burton then landed his sixth penalty. Massey topped Marist 20-18 in the plate final.
Match details
Premier championship final: Silverdale 25 (W Hafu try, L McAlister con 4 pen dg J Hargreaves dg) North Shore 23 (L Taukolo try, W Burton 6 pen) HT: 9-14.
Plate final: Massey 20 Marist 18.
Senior first championship final: Massey 14 (G Pariora try, G Cribb 3 pen) North Shore 3 (B Tingle pen) HT: 6-3.
U21 championship final: Northcote 8 Glenfield 6.
AUCKLAND
It's been a long time between drinks for Waitemata which has won the coveted Gallaher Shield for the first time since 1975. Waitemata beat University 26-14 in the final after being ahead 15-14 at halftime and can now proudly display the Gallaher Shield as well as the Alan McEvoy Memorial Shield for first round supremacy and the Auckland Supporters Club Cup for winning the second round. It ended a special season for coach Greg Aldous who triumphed in his first season in charge of a premier side. Outstanding for Waitemata were captain and halfback Craig McGrath, number eight Sione Lauaki and lock Michael Vondincklage. The last named deservedly won the man-of-the-match award for his lineout dominance and strong breaks in the open. University made a huge number of errors and that helped Waitemata's cause. Right wing Misi Taulapapa scored first for Waitemata after a kick through by the experienced Lee Stensness. University then went ahead through a converted try by Matt Liava'a. University scored another converted try after Inese Tanivula capitalised on a run by first five Eliota Fuimaono. Tries by halfback McGrath and flanker Patrick Segi gave Waitemata back the lead. Grammar Carlton beat Otahuhu 34-14 to win the Jubilee Trophy. The President's Trophy went to Mt Wellington 24-22 over Pakuranga.
Match details
Gallaher Shield, final: Waitemata 26 (M Taulapapa C McGrath P Segi tries, N White 3 pen con) University 14 (M Liava'a I Tanivula tries, A Whiteman 2 con) HT: 15-14.
Jubilee Trophy, final: Grammar Carlton 34 (S Sasulu 2 N Nimo R Havili C Culpin R Tamihere tries, N Sasulu 2 con) Otahuhu 14 (K Kiripati try, T Fanolua 3 pen) HT: 15-3.
Portola Trophy (promotion-relegation), round two): Te Papapa Onehunga 30 College Rifles 21; East Tamaki 20 Waitakere City 14.
COUNTIES-MANUKAU
First five Stephen Donald has had an outstanding season and he added to his growing reputation as he led Waiuku to the Counties-Manukau club championship title. His side topped Pukekohe 21-10 with the victory being built on a strong defence and Donald's outstanding ability to control the situation. Donald scored under the posts and converted to give Waiuku the lead and his side showed commitment to keep Pukekohe at bay. A lost opportunity within minutes of the final whistle cost Patumahoe dearly and allowed Drury a 13-8 win and the chance to play Weymouth for a spot in the 2004 premier division. However, Weymouth retained its place in the premier division with a 19-13 success.
Match details
Premier championship final: Waiuku 21 (S Donald J Kata tries Donald con 2 pen dg) Pukekohe 19 (D Lawson try T Nathan con pen).
Promotion relegation: Papakura 13 Weymouth 5; Bombay 19 Karaka 6. Final: Weymouth 19 Drury 13.
Division one final: Drury 13 Patumahoe 8. Promotion relegation: Papakura 24 Pukekohe 0.
Division two: Waiuku 45 Pukekohe 12.
Division three: Maramarua 20 Weymouth 15.
WAIKATO
Hamilton Marist downed Hamilton Old Boys 28-6 to win the Waikato Breweries premier championship final for the second year on end. Marist scored three tries to none and part from the set scrums had the better of play. Old Boys was pressured into many mistakes, especially behind the advantage line. The Marist loose forwards, Marty Holah and Dave Dillon, led the way on both attack and defence. The 6pm game time obviously didn't suit either side as the standard of play was below that of earlier rounds. In the semifinals Waikato representatives Matt Priscott and Derek Maisey had rescued Marist. Just when it looked as though Hautapu would make it through to the final, Priscott capitalised on a Hautapu mistake and ran 75 metres to score under the posts and then Maisey dropped a final minute goal to give Marist a 23-20 success. Hamilton Old Boys downed Te Awamutu Sports 23-15 at Te Awamutu in the other semi after being ahead 15-0 at halftime.
Match details
Waikato Breweries Shield final: Hamilton Marist 28 (D Rawnsley, D Devcich, A Edwards tries, Devcich 2 con 3 pen) Hamilton Old Boys 6 (J Versteynen 2 pen) HT: 15-3.
Waikato Draught Plate final: Fraser-Tech 48 (J Sole 2 D Kirton 2 T Moeke D Moeke T Child R Fisher tries, K Morath con D Crackett con, R Ferguson con) Morrinsville Sports 33 (V Raulini 2 W Masirewa D Sweeney A Davis tries, Sweeney 2 con L Crichton con R Proffit con.
Lion Cup final: Southern United 28 United Matamata Sports 24.
Jubilee Trophy final: Frankton 19 Hinuera 15.
Club Trophy final: Melville 22 Pirongia 8.
Group F final: Kereone 29 Kihikihi 20.
Rowe Cup senior B final: Hautapu 21 Fraser-Tech 12.
Under 21 final: Te Rapa 12 University 3.
Under 19 final: University 34 Putaruru 21.
KING COUNTRY
Waitete is the King Country premier champion. In the final Waitete beat Kio Kio United 15-8 with Kio Kio scoring the only try of the game.
Match details
Premier championship final: Waitete 15 (P Ratima 4 pen dropped goal) Kio Kio United 8 (J Hona try, B Burgess pen).
In the semifinals Kio Kio United had beaten Taumarunui Sports 20-6 while Waitete was too strong for Taupo Sports and won 32-3.
THAMES VALLEY
Thames is again premier champion of the Valley. It scored two tries to one to hold out a determined Paeroa West challenge 23-17 at Te Aroha. Thames was behind 3-0 early, but then settled and went to halftime with a 20-9 advantage. Thames forwards dominated the first haklf activities and that allowed halfback Aaron McDonald and first five Greg Ellis to control the game. West began the second half with a try before Thames fullback Michael Griffin goaled his third penalty to make the score 23-14. West stepped up its attack, but Thames managed to hold it out. With 10 minutes left West first five Bevan Robinson landed a penalty. The win gave Thames the McClinchy Cup and the Poland Memorial Challenge Cup.
Hauraki North took out the Dr Lawrence Memorial Cup when it defeated Whangamata 16-13.
Coromandel beat Te Aroha 20-16 to win the under 21 championship for the Johnson Cup.
BAY OF PLENTY
Match details
Baywdie premier championship final: Tauranga Sports 22 (R Miki 2 B Clark 4 pen) Rangiuru 5 (A Leota try).
Division one final: Rangataua 16 (S Dickson N Gray tries, S Ririnui pen, R Tipuna pen) Whakatane Marist 11 (J Fenton try pen, G Mexted pen)
Division two final: Judea 21 (N Connell T Williams J Edwards tries, W Taramoeroa 3 con) Marist St Michaels 3 (A Te Pari pen).
Division three final: Matata 10 (S Sutherland 2 tries) Papamoa 5 (D Ebbett try).
Colts final: Kahukura 24 Tauranga Sports 20. Under 19: Rangataua 17 Eastern Districts 3.
POVERTY BAY
Defending champion Old Boys Marist won its fourth successive title when it got up 17-15 over High School Old Boys in the Lee Brothers Shield final in Gisborne. Both sides scored two tries with HSOB ahead 12-7 at halftime. In the semis OBM had beaten YMP 26-16 while HSOB downed Ngatapa 29-8.
Match details
Lee Brothers Shield championship final: Old Boys Marist 17 (W Lardelli 2 tries, D Hume pen 2 cons) High School Old Boys 15 (S Barclay 2 tries, G Udall pen con).
Minor championship Tattersall and Bayley Cup final: Horouta 5 (K Vunga try) Tapuae 5 (J King try). HT: 0-5.
Seventh and eight playoff: Pirates 16 Celtic 13.
Promotion-relegation match. Celtic 22 Mahia 10.
Division one final: Mahia 21 GMC 14.
EAST COAST
Tokomaru United upset Tokararangi 24-15 in the East Coast championship final. Tokararangi had led the competition virtually all the way through. In the semifinals Tokararangi had beaten Ruatoria City 18-10 and Tokomaru pipped Hikurangi 16-15.
HAWKES BAY
Ryan Lewis was Taradale's special hero! The talented first five kicked all 24 of his side's points as Taradale won the Maddison Trophy with a 24-11 win over Havelock North. Lewis landed six penalties from nine attempts at goal and kicked two dropped goals. His 24 points followed the 30 points he recorded in his team's 40-29 semifinal win over Tamatea the previous week. It was Taradale's first Maddison Trophy final victory since 1998.
Match details
Championship final: Taradale 24 (R Lewis 6 pen 2 dg) Havelock North 11 (G Hawkins try, R Kinnear 2 pen) HT: 12-6.
TARANAKI
New Plymouth Old Boys became the Taranaki senior champion for the ninth time in 11 years! NPOB scored six tries to one on its way to downing Eltham-Kaponga 40-10 in the final. NPOB led 8-3 at halftime, but then hit top gear with a try after only three minutes. Midway through the half Taranaki rep first five Mark Urwin scored then fullback Daryl Lilley finished off a long range move. Eltham-Kaponga did score a consolation try before Lilley scored his second to end the game.
Match details
Championship final: New Plymouth Old Boys 40 (D Lilley 2 N Hohaia C Woods M Urwin P Mitchell tries, Urwin 2 pen 2 con) Eltham-Kaponga 10 (D Taogaga try, A. Gibson pen con).
WANGANUI
Ratana beat Marist 25-10 to clinch the Wanganui premier championship final for the third successive time. Ratana's success equalled the feat of Ohakune in the mid 1980s. Ratana led 18-5 at halftime. In a remarkable period of its history, Ratana has won 66 of its 70 matches over the last four seasons and scored an amazing 370 tries. In the championship semifinals Ratana downed Pirates 24-15 while Marist snatched a 20-17 victory over Kaierau with winger Marcella Hulbert scoring in the last minute.
Championship final: Ratana 25 (L Mason C Nete J Tume V Rauhina tries, D Corfield pen, con) Marist 10 (J Guthrie J Hughes tries).
Senior plate final: Taihape 14 (P McLean try, H Kereti 3 pen) Utiku Old Boys 10 (R McCaughan try, M Transom con pen).
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MANAWATU
Te Kawau retained the oldest senior club rugby championship trophy in New Zealand by beating Marist 23-16 at a packed Arena Manawatu on Saturday. The 108-year-old Hankins Shield, the symbol of Manawatu club rugby supremacy, was presented for the 100th time. It went to a Te Kawau team that played to its strengths in keeping the ball tight among the powerful pack. Marist started well with Lee Waller finishing a flowing move in the corner. Brett Davis added a couple of penalties to establish an 11-0 lead after 20 minutes. But as rain swept across the field, the tide turned. Te Kawau took control with a series of driving mauls and devastating pick and goes. Te Kawau looked certain to score after the ball was spun to wing Greg Sharland, however prop Wai Heybloom covered an incredible distance to hammer the wing into touch. However, lock Andy Hunt was driven over from the resultant lineout. An Adam Moffat penalty and Jeremy Hapeta close-range try gave Te Kawau a 13-11 halftime lead. Marist came out fighting in the second period, breaching the gain line and recycling possession well, however the ball was squandered on a number of occasions as intricate backline moves broke down. Te Kawau took advantage and control with a dropped goal and converted try. Marist came back valiantly and produced a superb Mike Rowe try to set up a grandstand finish, but it was too little, too late leaving them to ponder why they had not used the pace of their backs. Bart Karalus and Heybloom were heroes in defeat, while Hapeta, Hunt and first five-eighth Leighton Amey were the toast of Te Kawau. Junior Tomasi Cama destroyed Varsity, scoring four tries to secure the Val Holland Trophy for College Old Boys 29-10. Varsity missed the services of Hayden Roach and Craig Clare but celebrated the performance of Matt Barns. COB were led well by Blair Campbell, Jason Morgan made several decisive breaks and Cama finished superbly.
Oroua beat Linton 39-14 to claim the Goldfinch and Cousins Cup. Walker Jacobs kept the country outfit moving forward, while the soldiers squandered possession with poor passing. Ashley Flitten and Andrew Scully worked hard for Linton, while Richard Thurston and Hugh Hare stood out for Oroua.
WAIRARAPA
Eketahuna! Eketahuna! Eketahuna! That's the 'in sound' echoing around Wairarapa Bush after the town's senior side captured the premier club rugby crown for the first time in its 114 year history. Eketahuna beat defending champion Marist 19-15 in the final after being down 7-10 at halftime. It was a repeat of last year's final, but this time the Eketahuna boys had the final say before a adoring crowd of around 1000. A Corey Reid try and a conversion and penalty by Patrick Rimene gave Marist its 10 first half points. Eketahuna fullback Daniel Elms scored a try which was converted by Clint Bennet. The Eketahuna pack came into its own in the second half and the side scored two more tries, to Daniel Griffin and Tony King, one converted by Bennet. Marist's other points came from a try to Jefton Craig. The sides had contrasting wins in the semifinals Marist beat fancied Carterton 21-15 while Eketahuna overwhelmed Masterton Red Star 61-5. Eketahuna had lost by one point to Red Star the previous week, but the side ripped into its work and scored at a point a minute in the first half to lead 40-0 at the break. The 61-5 drubbing included nine tries. In the plate final, East Coast needed a late converted try to beat Puketoi 18-17.
In the semi finals East Coast had been too classy for Featherston, winning 26-10, while Puketoi grafted out a 14-8 win over Pioneer.
HOROWHENUA-KAPITI
Toa is the Horowhenua premier champion! Toa topped last year's champion Waikanae 35-12 after being ahead 18-5 at halftime. Winger Laigu Lokeni scored twice in the opening 25 minutes, while his brother Malasai also scored before halftime. Waikanae made too mistakes and paid the penalty as Toa added a further three tries. Levin Wanderers finished third with a 41-21 success against Athletic. It was 14-all at halftime. Foxton had the edge over Shannon and won 20-12 while Rahui beat Paraparaumu 26-8.
Match details
Senior championship final: Toa 35 (L Lokeni 2 M Lokeni P Crighton N Karepa J Paea tries, J Southee pen con) Waikanae 12 (J Olsen A Drake tries, S McBride con) HT: 18-5.
Third and fourth playoff: Levin Wanderers 41 (J Heteraiaka 2 L Hudson D Daley D Morgan S McGregor A Pairama tries, 3 con) Athletic 21 (G Taylor C Stewart D Williams tries, R McLean 3 con) HT: 14-14.
WELLINGTON
Poneke is the 2003 Jubilee Cup champion. With 16 points from rep five-eighth David Holwell, Poneke stopped a Marist-St Pat's three-peat with a 26-22 victory. Poneke's tries were scored by Misiluni Moananu and Peter Savelio. Winning coach was Ross Bond.
Western Suburbs won the Hardham Cup with a 31-15 success against Tawa.
MARLBOROUGH
Waitohi pulled out a huge effort in the last 20 minutes to beat Moutere 26-17 in an enthralling Marlborough premier club grand final at Lansdowne Park. 2000 spectators were there to witness an exciting,no holds barred contest. Waitohi drew first blood when Sam Howe kicked a penalty but by halftime, the Magpies had bounced back to lead 12-3. Laurie McGlone scored the first of his two tries at the end of a long build-up in which he featured twice. The hard to handle No 8 crashed over again five minutes before halftime from a well worked lineout move down the short side. Waitohi turned around with the strong north-west wind at their backs and Howe made things interesting when he closed the gap to 9-12 with two more penalties in the third quarter. Moutere appeared to be getting on top of their opponents up front when prop Bevan Johnson scored, but almost immediately the Tohis were back in the hunt when Howe's expertly placed kick caught Moutere out of position allowing Nick Holly to gather the bouncing ball and score, Howe converting. Ten minutes from time Waitohi regained the lead again through Holly at the end of a brilliant move. Andre Taurerewa hammered in the final nail near fulltime, finishing off another slick back move and giving the Picton-based club its first premier title since 1994. Waitohi had many heroes not the least were the Love brothers Ross and George along with Anthony Keenan. Howe and halfback Manahi Clarke combined smoothly and out wide, fullback Blair Skipper provided much needed punch from the back and mid-fielder Holly was all class. McGlone played superbly for Moutere, who had the better of the forward exchanges over Waitohi for most of the game. Lock Stu Campbell, hooker Laurin Gane and prop Bevan Johnson were others to shine. Moutere's backs were outclassed, their cause not helped by losing key mid-fielders Tom Murphy and Craig Martin injured inside the first 15 minutes. Fullback Bryn Cotching had a fine game.
In the reserve grade final Moutere downed Central 26-12 after leading 23-0 at halftime. A highlight of the match was a 55m penalty goal kicked by Moutere centre Jonathan Rose.
Premier grand final: Waitohi 26 (N Holly 2 A Taurerewa tries, S Howe con 3 pen) Moutere 17 (L McGlone 2 B Johnson tries, B Cotching con)
Senior reserve: Moutere 26 (E Jones K MacDonald R Ngatai tries, J Rose con 3 pen) Central 12 (S Turagabeg R Line tries, N Corking con).
NELSON BAYS
In what proved to be a really tough forward battle Marist came out as Nelson Bays champions for 2003. In a game expected to be dominated by backline play some outstanding forward efforts from both sides was the highlights. Marist's domination of most set piece ball was the telling difference however,.
Division 1 Grade final: Marist 32 Nelson 24.
SOUTH CANTERBURY
McKenzie celebrated its jubilee year in real style winning the grand final 44-10 against a Temuka side which simply had no answers to a powerful forward effort. For McKenzie it was a first in its long history . Winger Hayden Dwyer opened the scoring with a try in the 11th minute and finished the scoring with his second try right on fulltime. McKenzie led 13-7 after 40 minutes but rarely stamped its authority on the match in the second half. Powerhouse winger Seti Kaile and fullback Tevita Latu both scored two tries.
McKenzie 44 (H Dwyer 2 S Kaile 2 A Wilson T Latu tries, D Smith 2 pen 4 con) Temuka 10 (C Newlove try, R Preston 1 pen 1 con);
Bottom four final: Geraldine 23 Old Boys 15, Development Final: Old Boys 14 McKenzie 3.
NORTH OTAGO
Athletic are the holders of the Citizens Shield for 2003 beating off a stern Old Boys challenge over the final stages to post a narrow but deserved 24-23 victory. Old Boys opened the scoring when big front-rower Hiliau Asi crashed his way over for Ray Gutsell to convert. Old Boys were authors of their own downfall in many ways as the game wore on, making far too many errors mixed in with some poor tactical kicking and six minutes later Athletic first five-eighths Dallas Pitches put Steve Kotua in for a well constructed try which Roly Senior converted to level the scores. The next 24 minutes featured scrappy broken play before Athletic left winger Ross Skinner scored wide out to put Athletic in front. Gutsell added a penalty just before halftime to leave Athletic with a 12-10 lead. Seven minutes into the second half Athletic blindside flanker Josh Lewis scored for senior to convert but three minutes later Gutsell kicked his second penalty to reduce the margin to six points. Midway through the second half Athletic halfback Ryan McCarthy scored to take Athletic out to a commanding 24-13 lead. Old Boys produced its best rugby in the last 15 minutes with Hotili Asi scoring an unconverted try to make it 24-18. A brilliant solo effort two minutes later saw Old Boys left-winger Pila Fifita score but the conversion which would have won the game was flagged away.
In the curtain-raiser Valley took the senior rugby title for the third year in a row beating Athletic 41-27.
Citizen Shield final: Athletic 24 (S Kotua R Skinner J Lewis R McCarthy tries, R Senior 2 con) Old Boys 23 (Hiliau Asi Hotili Asi P Fifita tries, R Gutsell 2 pen con) Ht:12-10.
Senior rugby final: Valley 41 (S Black 2 S Mavor H Robertson K Baxter C Cottier tries, Cottier 4 con pen) Athletic 27 (K Sharkey K Adamson J McMurtrie P McLaren 2 tries, McLaren con) HT:14-0 Valley.
SOUTHLAND
In a nail biting finish to a great spectacle of no nonsense club rugby Blues centre Seremaia Bai scored a try five minutes from fulltime and then converted it himself to claim the Galbraith Shield for his side in 2003 with a 15-13 win over Woodlands. It was an absorbing final played in perfect conditions in front of a large vocal crowd. The Blues lead 8-3 at halftime but were trailing 10-8 after 10 minutes of the second half when Pita Wilson hustled his way over for a try which Mike Ruthven duly converted. Ruthven landed a penalty goal after 27 minutes and though Woodlands applied all sorts of pressure, the Blues defence held firm, turned defence into attack and were rewarded with Bai's match-winning effort when all appeared lost.
Blues 15 (G Eade S Bai tries, Bai con S Colyer pen) Woodlands 12 (P Wilson try M Ruthven con 2 pen);
Hikurangi is the 2003 Northland club champion! Led by first five-eighths Noel Edmonds, who scored 16 points, Hikurangi upset the more favoured Kamo 21-15. Edmonds scored a try, kicked three penalty goals and a conversion. Kamo was hot on attack in the final five minutes, but Hikurangi held on. Centre Eric Abraham was Hikurangi's other try scorer. Kamo made up for that loss with a 31-25 win over Mid Northern in the reserve grade final. Western Sharks pipped Otamatea 14-13 in the plate final while Southern won the promotion relegation game over Whangaruru 27-17 to keep its place in the premier division.
Match details - Club championship final:
Hikurangi 21 (N Edmonds E Abraham tries, Edmonds 3 pen con) Kamo 15 (J Weston L Jones tries, J Guise pen con).
Plate final: Western Sharks 14 (J Fowlie try, R Rowse 3 pen) Otamatea 13 (J Levi try, Sn Kirby 2 pen con).
Promotion-relegation: Southern 27 (S Leota R Smith H Takalua tries, C McKenzie pen 2 con).
Reserve grade final: Kamo 31 (J Mason B Bradburn A MacPherson R Davis tries, Davis pen 4 con) Mid Northern 25 (S Morgan 2 T Francis J Murray tries, M Pinny pen con).
NORTH HARBOUR
Silverdale has made history in the North Harbour by taking out its first premier championship. In an absorbing final, Silverdale got up 25-23 over North Shore. Silverdale trailed 9=14 at halftime, but took the lead going into the final quarter and managed to hold off the opposition. Silverdale had a scare right on time when a dropped goal attempt by Shore five-eighth Justin Poihipi just failed. Hooker Willie Hafu was a stand out player for Silverdale while first fiveeighth Luke McAlister, son the coach Charlie, contributed 17 points from four penalties, a dropped goal and the conversion of Hafu's try. Winger Lingi Taukolo scored Shore's first half try and Willie Burton landed three penalty goals. Silverdale hit the lead for the first time 18 minutes into the second half after Hafu's try but Shore replied with Burton's fifth penalty. Replacement halfback Jonathan Hargreaves landed a dropped goal to put Silverdale ahead then McAlister dropped his goal to increase the margin to five. Burton then landed his sixth penalty. Massey topped Marist 20-18 in the plate final.
Match details
Premier championship final: Silverdale 25 (W Hafu try, L McAlister con 4 pen dg J Hargreaves dg) North Shore 23 (L Taukolo try, W Burton 6 pen) HT: 9-14.
Plate final: Massey 20 Marist 18.
Senior first championship final: Massey 14 (G Pariora try, G Cribb 3 pen) North Shore 3 (B Tingle pen) HT: 6-3.
U21 championship final: Northcote 8 Glenfield 6.
AUCKLAND
It's been a long time between drinks for Waitemata which has won the coveted Gallaher Shield for the first time since 1975. Waitemata beat University 26-14 in the final after being ahead 15-14 at halftime and can now proudly display the Gallaher Shield as well as the Alan McEvoy Memorial Shield for first round supremacy and the Auckland Supporters Club Cup for winning the second round. It ended a special season for coach Greg Aldous who triumphed in his first season in charge of a premier side. Outstanding for Waitemata were captain and halfback Craig McGrath, number eight Sione Lauaki and lock Michael Vondincklage. The last named deservedly won the man-of-the-match award for his lineout dominance and strong breaks in the open. University made a huge number of errors and that helped Waitemata's cause. Right wing Misi Taulapapa scored first for Waitemata after a kick through by the experienced Lee Stensness. University then went ahead through a converted try by Matt Liava'a. University scored another converted try after Inese Tanivula capitalised on a run by first five Eliota Fuimaono. Tries by halfback McGrath and flanker Patrick Segi gave Waitemata back the lead. Grammar Carlton beat Otahuhu 34-14 to win the Jubilee Trophy. The President's Trophy went to Mt Wellington 24-22 over Pakuranga.
Match details
Gallaher Shield, final: Waitemata 26 (M Taulapapa C McGrath P Segi tries, N White 3 pen con) University 14 (M Liava'a I Tanivula tries, A Whiteman 2 con) HT: 15-14.
Jubilee Trophy, final: Grammar Carlton 34 (S Sasulu 2 N Nimo R Havili C Culpin R Tamihere tries, N Sasulu 2 con) Otahuhu 14 (K Kiripati try, T Fanolua 3 pen) HT: 15-3.
Portola Trophy (promotion-relegation), round two): Te Papapa Onehunga 30 College Rifles 21; East Tamaki 20 Waitakere City 14.
COUNTIES-MANUKAU
First five Stephen Donald has had an outstanding season and he added to his growing reputation as he led Waiuku to the Counties-Manukau club championship title. His side topped Pukekohe 21-10 with the victory being built on a strong defence and Donald's outstanding ability to control the situation. Donald scored under the posts and converted to give Waiuku the lead and his side showed commitment to keep Pukekohe at bay. A lost opportunity within minutes of the final whistle cost Patumahoe dearly and allowed Drury a 13-8 win and the chance to play Weymouth for a spot in the 2004 premier division. However, Weymouth retained its place in the premier division with a 19-13 success.
Match details
Premier championship final: Waiuku 21 (S Donald J Kata tries Donald con 2 pen dg) Pukekohe 19 (D Lawson try T Nathan con pen).
Promotion relegation: Papakura 13 Weymouth 5; Bombay 19 Karaka 6. Final: Weymouth 19 Drury 13.
Division one final: Drury 13 Patumahoe 8. Promotion relegation: Papakura 24 Pukekohe 0.
Division two: Waiuku 45 Pukekohe 12.
Division three: Maramarua 20 Weymouth 15.
WAIKATO
Hamilton Marist downed Hamilton Old Boys 28-6 to win the Waikato Breweries premier championship final for the second year on end. Marist scored three tries to none and part from the set scrums had the better of play. Old Boys was pressured into many mistakes, especially behind the advantage line. The Marist loose forwards, Marty Holah and Dave Dillon, led the way on both attack and defence. The 6pm game time obviously didn't suit either side as the standard of play was below that of earlier rounds. In the semifinals Waikato representatives Matt Priscott and Derek Maisey had rescued Marist. Just when it looked as though Hautapu would make it through to the final, Priscott capitalised on a Hautapu mistake and ran 75 metres to score under the posts and then Maisey dropped a final minute goal to give Marist a 23-20 success. Hamilton Old Boys downed Te Awamutu Sports 23-15 at Te Awamutu in the other semi after being ahead 15-0 at halftime.
Match details
Waikato Breweries Shield final: Hamilton Marist 28 (D Rawnsley, D Devcich, A Edwards tries, Devcich 2 con 3 pen) Hamilton Old Boys 6 (J Versteynen 2 pen) HT: 15-3.
Waikato Draught Plate final: Fraser-Tech 48 (J Sole 2 D Kirton 2 T Moeke D Moeke T Child R Fisher tries, K Morath con D Crackett con, R Ferguson con) Morrinsville Sports 33 (V Raulini 2 W Masirewa D Sweeney A Davis tries, Sweeney 2 con L Crichton con R Proffit con.
Lion Cup final: Southern United 28 United Matamata Sports 24.
Jubilee Trophy final: Frankton 19 Hinuera 15.
Club Trophy final: Melville 22 Pirongia 8.
Group F final: Kereone 29 Kihikihi 20.
Rowe Cup senior B final: Hautapu 21 Fraser-Tech 12.
Under 21 final: Te Rapa 12 University 3.
Under 19 final: University 34 Putaruru 21.
KING COUNTRY
Waitete is the King Country premier champion. In the final Waitete beat Kio Kio United 15-8 with Kio Kio scoring the only try of the game.
Match details
Premier championship final: Waitete 15 (P Ratima 4 pen dropped goal) Kio Kio United 8 (J Hona try, B Burgess pen).
In the semifinals Kio Kio United had beaten Taumarunui Sports 20-6 while Waitete was too strong for Taupo Sports and won 32-3.
THAMES VALLEY
Thames is again premier champion of the Valley. It scored two tries to one to hold out a determined Paeroa West challenge 23-17 at Te Aroha. Thames was behind 3-0 early, but then settled and went to halftime with a 20-9 advantage. Thames forwards dominated the first haklf activities and that allowed halfback Aaron McDonald and first five Greg Ellis to control the game. West began the second half with a try before Thames fullback Michael Griffin goaled his third penalty to make the score 23-14. West stepped up its attack, but Thames managed to hold it out. With 10 minutes left West first five Bevan Robinson landed a penalty. The win gave Thames the McClinchy Cup and the Poland Memorial Challenge Cup.
Hauraki North took out the Dr Lawrence Memorial Cup when it defeated Whangamata 16-13.
Coromandel beat Te Aroha 20-16 to win the under 21 championship for the Johnson Cup.
BAY OF PLENTY
Match details
Baywdie premier championship final: Tauranga Sports 22 (R Miki 2 B Clark 4 pen) Rangiuru 5 (A Leota try).
Division one final: Rangataua 16 (S Dickson N Gray tries, S Ririnui pen, R Tipuna pen) Whakatane Marist 11 (J Fenton try pen, G Mexted pen)
Division two final: Judea 21 (N Connell T Williams J Edwards tries, W Taramoeroa 3 con) Marist St Michaels 3 (A Te Pari pen).
Division three final: Matata 10 (S Sutherland 2 tries) Papamoa 5 (D Ebbett try).
Colts final: Kahukura 24 Tauranga Sports 20. Under 19: Rangataua 17 Eastern Districts 3.
POVERTY BAY
Defending champion Old Boys Marist won its fourth successive title when it got up 17-15 over High School Old Boys in the Lee Brothers Shield final in Gisborne. Both sides scored two tries with HSOB ahead 12-7 at halftime. In the semis OBM had beaten YMP 26-16 while HSOB downed Ngatapa 29-8.
Match details
Lee Brothers Shield championship final: Old Boys Marist 17 (W Lardelli 2 tries, D Hume pen 2 cons) High School Old Boys 15 (S Barclay 2 tries, G Udall pen con).
Minor championship Tattersall and Bayley Cup final: Horouta 5 (K Vunga try) Tapuae 5 (J King try). HT: 0-5.
Seventh and eight playoff: Pirates 16 Celtic 13.
Promotion-relegation match. Celtic 22 Mahia 10.
Division one final: Mahia 21 GMC 14.
EAST COAST
Tokomaru United upset Tokararangi 24-15 in the East Coast championship final. Tokararangi had led the competition virtually all the way through. In the semifinals Tokararangi had beaten Ruatoria City 18-10 and Tokomaru pipped Hikurangi 16-15.
HAWKES BAY
Ryan Lewis was Taradale's special hero! The talented first five kicked all 24 of his side's points as Taradale won the Maddison Trophy with a 24-11 win over Havelock North. Lewis landed six penalties from nine attempts at goal and kicked two dropped goals. His 24 points followed the 30 points he recorded in his team's 40-29 semifinal win over Tamatea the previous week. It was Taradale's first Maddison Trophy final victory since 1998.
Match details
Championship final: Taradale 24 (R Lewis 6 pen 2 dg) Havelock North 11 (G Hawkins try, R Kinnear 2 pen) HT: 12-6.
TARANAKI
New Plymouth Old Boys became the Taranaki senior champion for the ninth time in 11 years! NPOB scored six tries to one on its way to downing Eltham-Kaponga 40-10 in the final. NPOB led 8-3 at halftime, but then hit top gear with a try after only three minutes. Midway through the half Taranaki rep first five Mark Urwin scored then fullback Daryl Lilley finished off a long range move. Eltham-Kaponga did score a consolation try before Lilley scored his second to end the game.
Match details
Championship final: New Plymouth Old Boys 40 (D Lilley 2 N Hohaia C Woods M Urwin P Mitchell tries, Urwin 2 pen 2 con) Eltham-Kaponga 10 (D Taogaga try, A. Gibson pen con).
WANGANUI
Ratana beat Marist 25-10 to clinch the Wanganui premier championship final for the third successive time. Ratana's success equalled the feat of Ohakune in the mid 1980s. Ratana led 18-5 at halftime. In a remarkable period of its history, Ratana has won 66 of its 70 matches over the last four seasons and scored an amazing 370 tries. In the championship semifinals Ratana downed Pirates 24-15 while Marist snatched a 20-17 victory over Kaierau with winger Marcella Hulbert scoring in the last minute.
Championship final: Ratana 25 (L Mason C Nete J Tume V Rauhina tries, D Corfield pen, con) Marist 10 (J Guthrie J Hughes tries).
Senior plate final: Taihape 14 (P McLean try, H Kereti 3 pen) Utiku Old Boys 10 (R McCaughan try, M Transom con pen).
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MANAWATU
Te Kawau retained the oldest senior club rugby championship trophy in New Zealand by beating Marist 23-16 at a packed Arena Manawatu on Saturday. The 108-year-old Hankins Shield, the symbol of Manawatu club rugby supremacy, was presented for the 100th time. It went to a Te Kawau team that played to its strengths in keeping the ball tight among the powerful pack. Marist started well with Lee Waller finishing a flowing move in the corner. Brett Davis added a couple of penalties to establish an 11-0 lead after 20 minutes. But as rain swept across the field, the tide turned. Te Kawau took control with a series of driving mauls and devastating pick and goes. Te Kawau looked certain to score after the ball was spun to wing Greg Sharland, however prop Wai Heybloom covered an incredible distance to hammer the wing into touch. However, lock Andy Hunt was driven over from the resultant lineout. An Adam Moffat penalty and Jeremy Hapeta close-range try gave Te Kawau a 13-11 halftime lead. Marist came out fighting in the second period, breaching the gain line and recycling possession well, however the ball was squandered on a number of occasions as intricate backline moves broke down. Te Kawau took advantage and control with a dropped goal and converted try. Marist came back valiantly and produced a superb Mike Rowe try to set up a grandstand finish, but it was too little, too late leaving them to ponder why they had not used the pace of their backs. Bart Karalus and Heybloom were heroes in defeat, while Hapeta, Hunt and first five-eighth Leighton Amey were the toast of Te Kawau. Junior Tomasi Cama destroyed Varsity, scoring four tries to secure the Val Holland Trophy for College Old Boys 29-10. Varsity missed the services of Hayden Roach and Craig Clare but celebrated the performance of Matt Barns. COB were led well by Blair Campbell, Jason Morgan made several decisive breaks and Cama finished superbly.
Oroua beat Linton 39-14 to claim the Goldfinch and Cousins Cup. Walker Jacobs kept the country outfit moving forward, while the soldiers squandered possession with poor passing. Ashley Flitten and Andrew Scully worked hard for Linton, while Richard Thurston and Hugh Hare stood out for Oroua.
WAIRARAPA
Eketahuna! Eketahuna! Eketahuna! That's the 'in sound' echoing around Wairarapa Bush after the town's senior side captured the premier club rugby crown for the first time in its 114 year history. Eketahuna beat defending champion Marist 19-15 in the final after being down 7-10 at halftime. It was a repeat of last year's final, but this time the Eketahuna boys had the final say before a adoring crowd of around 1000. A Corey Reid try and a conversion and penalty by Patrick Rimene gave Marist its 10 first half points. Eketahuna fullback Daniel Elms scored a try which was converted by Clint Bennet. The Eketahuna pack came into its own in the second half and the side scored two more tries, to Daniel Griffin and Tony King, one converted by Bennet. Marist's other points came from a try to Jefton Craig. The sides had contrasting wins in the semifinals Marist beat fancied Carterton 21-15 while Eketahuna overwhelmed Masterton Red Star 61-5. Eketahuna had lost by one point to Red Star the previous week, but the side ripped into its work and scored at a point a minute in the first half to lead 40-0 at the break. The 61-5 drubbing included nine tries. In the plate final, East Coast needed a late converted try to beat Puketoi 18-17.
In the semi finals East Coast had been too classy for Featherston, winning 26-10, while Puketoi grafted out a 14-8 win over Pioneer.
HOROWHENUA-KAPITI
Toa is the Horowhenua premier champion! Toa topped last year's champion Waikanae 35-12 after being ahead 18-5 at halftime. Winger Laigu Lokeni scored twice in the opening 25 minutes, while his brother Malasai also scored before halftime. Waikanae made too mistakes and paid the penalty as Toa added a further three tries. Levin Wanderers finished third with a 41-21 success against Athletic. It was 14-all at halftime. Foxton had the edge over Shannon and won 20-12 while Rahui beat Paraparaumu 26-8.
Match details
Senior championship final: Toa 35 (L Lokeni 2 M Lokeni P Crighton N Karepa J Paea tries, J Southee pen con) Waikanae 12 (J Olsen A Drake tries, S McBride con) HT: 18-5.
Third and fourth playoff: Levin Wanderers 41 (J Heteraiaka 2 L Hudson D Daley D Morgan S McGregor A Pairama tries, 3 con) Athletic 21 (G Taylor C Stewart D Williams tries, R McLean 3 con) HT: 14-14.
WELLINGTON
Poneke is the 2003 Jubilee Cup champion. With 16 points from rep five-eighth David Holwell, Poneke stopped a Marist-St Pat's three-peat with a 26-22 victory. Poneke's tries were scored by Misiluni Moananu and Peter Savelio. Winning coach was Ross Bond.
Western Suburbs won the Hardham Cup with a 31-15 success against Tawa.
MARLBOROUGH
Waitohi pulled out a huge effort in the last 20 minutes to beat Moutere 26-17 in an enthralling Marlborough premier club grand final at Lansdowne Park. 2000 spectators were there to witness an exciting,no holds barred contest. Waitohi drew first blood when Sam Howe kicked a penalty but by halftime, the Magpies had bounced back to lead 12-3. Laurie McGlone scored the first of his two tries at the end of a long build-up in which he featured twice. The hard to handle No 8 crashed over again five minutes before halftime from a well worked lineout move down the short side. Waitohi turned around with the strong north-west wind at their backs and Howe made things interesting when he closed the gap to 9-12 with two more penalties in the third quarter. Moutere appeared to be getting on top of their opponents up front when prop Bevan Johnson scored, but almost immediately the Tohis were back in the hunt when Howe's expertly placed kick caught Moutere out of position allowing Nick Holly to gather the bouncing ball and score, Howe converting. Ten minutes from time Waitohi regained the lead again through Holly at the end of a brilliant move. Andre Taurerewa hammered in the final nail near fulltime, finishing off another slick back move and giving the Picton-based club its first premier title since 1994. Waitohi had many heroes not the least were the Love brothers Ross and George along with Anthony Keenan. Howe and halfback Manahi Clarke combined smoothly and out wide, fullback Blair Skipper provided much needed punch from the back and mid-fielder Holly was all class. McGlone played superbly for Moutere, who had the better of the forward exchanges over Waitohi for most of the game. Lock Stu Campbell, hooker Laurin Gane and prop Bevan Johnson were others to shine. Moutere's backs were outclassed, their cause not helped by losing key mid-fielders Tom Murphy and Craig Martin injured inside the first 15 minutes. Fullback Bryn Cotching had a fine game.
In the reserve grade final Moutere downed Central 26-12 after leading 23-0 at halftime. A highlight of the match was a 55m penalty goal kicked by Moutere centre Jonathan Rose.
Premier grand final: Waitohi 26 (N Holly 2 A Taurerewa tries, S Howe con 3 pen) Moutere 17 (L McGlone 2 B Johnson tries, B Cotching con)
Senior reserve: Moutere 26 (E Jones K MacDonald R Ngatai tries, J Rose con 3 pen) Central 12 (S Turagabeg R Line tries, N Corking con).
NELSON BAYS
In what proved to be a really tough forward battle Marist came out as Nelson Bays champions for 2003. In a game expected to be dominated by backline play some outstanding forward efforts from both sides was the highlights. Marist's domination of most set piece ball was the telling difference however,.
Division 1 Grade final: Marist 32 Nelson 24.
SOUTH CANTERBURY
McKenzie celebrated its jubilee year in real style winning the grand final 44-10 against a Temuka side which simply had no answers to a powerful forward effort. For McKenzie it was a first in its long history . Winger Hayden Dwyer opened the scoring with a try in the 11th minute and finished the scoring with his second try right on fulltime. McKenzie led 13-7 after 40 minutes but rarely stamped its authority on the match in the second half. Powerhouse winger Seti Kaile and fullback Tevita Latu both scored two tries.
McKenzie 44 (H Dwyer 2 S Kaile 2 A Wilson T Latu tries, D Smith 2 pen 4 con) Temuka 10 (C Newlove try, R Preston 1 pen 1 con);
Bottom four final: Geraldine 23 Old Boys 15, Development Final: Old Boys 14 McKenzie 3.
NORTH OTAGO
Athletic are the holders of the Citizens Shield for 2003 beating off a stern Old Boys challenge over the final stages to post a narrow but deserved 24-23 victory. Old Boys opened the scoring when big front-rower Hiliau Asi crashed his way over for Ray Gutsell to convert. Old Boys were authors of their own downfall in many ways as the game wore on, making far too many errors mixed in with some poor tactical kicking and six minutes later Athletic first five-eighths Dallas Pitches put Steve Kotua in for a well constructed try which Roly Senior converted to level the scores. The next 24 minutes featured scrappy broken play before Athletic left winger Ross Skinner scored wide out to put Athletic in front. Gutsell added a penalty just before halftime to leave Athletic with a 12-10 lead. Seven minutes into the second half Athletic blindside flanker Josh Lewis scored for senior to convert but three minutes later Gutsell kicked his second penalty to reduce the margin to six points. Midway through the second half Athletic halfback Ryan McCarthy scored to take Athletic out to a commanding 24-13 lead. Old Boys produced its best rugby in the last 15 minutes with Hotili Asi scoring an unconverted try to make it 24-18. A brilliant solo effort two minutes later saw Old Boys left-winger Pila Fifita score but the conversion which would have won the game was flagged away.
In the curtain-raiser Valley took the senior rugby title for the third year in a row beating Athletic 41-27.
Citizen Shield final: Athletic 24 (S Kotua R Skinner J Lewis R McCarthy tries, R Senior 2 con) Old Boys 23 (Hiliau Asi Hotili Asi P Fifita tries, R Gutsell 2 pen con) Ht:12-10.
Senior rugby final: Valley 41 (S Black 2 S Mavor H Robertson K Baxter C Cottier tries, Cottier 4 con pen) Athletic 27 (K Sharkey K Adamson J McMurtrie P McLaren 2 tries, McLaren con) HT:14-0 Valley.
SOUTHLAND
In a nail biting finish to a great spectacle of no nonsense club rugby Blues centre Seremaia Bai scored a try five minutes from fulltime and then converted it himself to claim the Galbraith Shield for his side in 2003 with a 15-13 win over Woodlands. It was an absorbing final played in perfect conditions in front of a large vocal crowd. The Blues lead 8-3 at halftime but were trailing 10-8 after 10 minutes of the second half when Pita Wilson hustled his way over for a try which Mike Ruthven duly converted. Ruthven landed a penalty goal after 27 minutes and though Woodlands applied all sorts of pressure, the Blues defence held firm, turned defence into attack and were rewarded with Bai's match-winning effort when all appeared lost.
Blues 15 (G Eade S Bai tries, Bai con S Colyer pen) Woodlands 12 (P Wilson try M Ruthven con 2 pen);
