Taranaki Development (23) vs Northland Development (21)

Match Report by Steven Harris

The Northland Development team fought their way back from 18-7 down at halftime only to come up short 23-21 in a hard fought encounter against Taranaki Development played at Te Awamutu Rugby Sports & Recreation Club on Saturday afternoon.

Head coach Graham Dewes was pleased with the comeback but disappointed like the two previous close defeats.  They were not able to close out the game after having the better of the second half.  Northland looked likely to pull off the win in the final play only to concede a penalty to the delight of the Taranaki players.

Northland came into the game having to do without one of their stronger performers, loose forward Sam McNamara and big Fijian lock Temo Mayavananua who had both been called up into the Northland Mitre 10 Cup lineup for the clash against Taranaki.

Taranaki started the game strongly with their backs proving difficult to contain getting on the outside of Northlands compressed defence and creating chances which they took, building an 18-7 halftime lead.

Northland were forced into a couple of changes at the break with wing Tavite Gadeisuva who went into the game with an injury having to sit the second half out.

Mac Sykes who once again was outstanding at halfback showed his versatility by moving into the vacated wing and continued to impress in the unfamiliar position.

Wiseguy Fiaane and Emile Pittman who both entered the fray after the break also added much needed energy and spark.

Skipper Aorangi Stokes played with his normal aggression and led by example.  Ranata Roberts TeNana was a constant danger with his speed and footwork given the limited ball he had.

Northland added two more tries in the second half to hard working lock Lucas Albornoz and fullback Noah Cooper which set up a grandstand finish.

Article added: Tuesday 04 September 2018