Auckland went straight through to the final by virtue of winning the 1 v 2 play off in the morning. Manawatu had to eliminate a strong BOP team that included New Zealand representatives Shaq and Maurice Stone and Arepa Ohia.
Ultimately the extra game told on the home team Manawatu as Auckland won the final 5-3.
Weather conditions were marginal with persistent light rain and occasional windy periods but despite the conditions the standard of play was high and errors were minimal.
Auckland benefited on attack through the combination of Tivoli and Tama Guthrie and brilliant defence from Aaron No’otai who provided the pivotal edge for Auckland. To add to the winning mix, leadership provided by Daniel Supua-Siliva was the glue that held the team together.
Manawatu gave a gutsy and never say die performance, with some entertaining and special touch from a group of talented players that provided a real X-Factor; no doubt a number of New Zealand reps will come from this group in the future and they have certainly made their province proud.
The experience of New Zealand representative Whitiaua Black and the speed of Beaudine Waaka stood out for Manawatu throughout the tournament and it was no different today, but Auckland had the edge when it mattered most.
Touch New Zealand Coaching and Elite Player Development Manager was pleased with the level of performance in the Open Grades; it was particularly pleasing for Pete to see his home Province Auckland win the Open Mens again, a feat they had not managed since 2001, the year Peter retired from the Opens sector.
Last Modified on 03/03/2012 13:56