Rugby: Hawke’s Bay sees Northland to retain Ranfurly Shield

Hawke’s Bay has withheld the Ranfurly Shield, denying Northland’s attempt to break its 42-year drought.

After a quick run in which Taranaki and Otago won the Shield and then immediately lost it the following week, Hawke’s Bay became the first team to defend the Shield this season, with a 33-17 victory.

Hawke’s Bay made a lot of changes from the team that was hit at North Harbor the week before, with most of their Shield winning team coming back, though it was hard to tell in a mishandling first half that ended the Bay. 9 -3 up front.

A try shortly after the break by Noria Fomai extended the hosts’ lead before captain Ash Dixon crossed close to the touchline, but this time not from a lineout, with an overlap that saw him give the champions an advantage. from 21-3.

That was enough to cushion, and while a quick response from reserve support Luatangi Li gave Northland a glimmer of hope, Danny Toala and Devon Flanders added to the Bay’s lead to ensure Li’s second attempt was simply a comfort.

Hawke’s Bay also rubbed off the victory by claiming a crucial five points to move up the championship ladder, beating Northland to lead the second division by two points.

Manawatu will be the next team with a chance to end Shield’s long unsuccessful drought, and the two sides will meet next Saturday.

Here’s how the match unfolded: