In this particular grade, Wellington were looking for their fourth title on the bounce, a remarkable feat in New Zealand touch. A fast start from both sides ensured that this game would be hotly contested. Wellington had an intercept and early chances batted down for recounts but defence remained tight from both squads with little being given each way. The Bay had an effective footwork and diving game which was causing the Wellington defenders issues, just as Wellington's early long ball approach was creating some near opportunities for them. Only some determined chase downs and poor handling stopped the sides from getting off the mark.
The first half continued as a stalemate and a midfield battle of yards. Accuracy in the final third was also a key factor in a so far scoreless final. This trend continued through to the halftime break where both teams remained locked at nil-all. This is a rarity in any touch game, let alone a final.
Within a minute of the restart, both teams had blown point blank opportunities to open the scoring. End to end after Wellington dropped the ball cold over the line, the Bay had an intercept and an overlap which was also spilled over the line going through the final pair of hands. It seemed at this stage that both teams were afraid to score, or at least lacked a clinical edge.
Finally the breakthrough came part way through the second half as Noni Shedlock scored from a check back following a long ball out to the wing. The first half of this match saw no touchdowns, but all of a sudden the teams were willing to score as the Bay came straight back through a James O'Neill effort. Tania Jahnke replied in turn for Wellington following some slick ball handling from the Wellington playmakers. Paula Smith soon brought the game back to level terms at 2-2.
As the game swung back and forth, a player needed to step up and capitalise on their team's chances. Steve Toki was beginning to look extremely dangerous for the Bay, especially as the Wellington defence tired part way through the second period. Toki made the game his own by assisting Ricky Northcott through the middle, Emanuel Werahiko on the edge and Samual Matekuare on the outside. These three plays knocked the stuffing out of a Wellington team who had been their equal up to this point. Any chance of an unlikely Wellington comeback from 3 touchdowns behind was nullified by poor handling on the wings as time ran out.
Final score: 5-2 to Bay of Plenty (Over 30 Mixed champions)
Last Modified on 28/02/2012 14:56