No Black Ferns, no problems for Waikato in the Farah Palmer Cup Premiership final.
In one of most exhilarating FPC finals, Waikato conquered perennial contenders Canterbury 27-25 at Hamilton's FMG Stadium Waikato on Saturday afternoon for their second title in four years.
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For Waikato, it was even better than their gargantuan struggle won three years ago 22-20 on a moody afternoon in Christchurch.
Waikato came out firing, setting the tempo early with their physicality. Their dominance in the scrum and at the breakdown was clear, as they consistently applied pressure on Canterbury’s set-piece.
Waikato’s pack played with ruthless efficiency, laying the foundation for an intense opening period. When prop Veisana Maturiki-Fakalelu crashed over, it was 10-0 in a flash.
Canterbury, renowned for their fitness and expansive style, refused to back down. As the game progressed, they began to open up Waikato’s abrasive defence with quick distribution.
In the 47th minute, the visitors claimed a shock 22-17 lead when a crosskick by Terauoriwa Gapper was claimed by Riko Yoshida. The Japanese wing, perhaps the shortest player on the field, soared highest.
Waikato reverted to type to wrestle back the advantage. Former Black Fern Grace Houpapa-Barrett barged over in the 58th minute for her 11th try of the campaign.
Canterbury teased Waikato when the ball went to the edges but the hosts held their nerve. They were even denied a try when Viki Rose-Green was sandwiched between half a dozen defenders.
"Sorry about my ugly tears but I don't care. It means so much, it was not just about the team on the field. I'm just so proud," Waikato captain Chelsea Semple told Sky Sport.
"It took everything, we haven't felt that pressure that Canterbury put us under, so there is no better competitor for us."
Canterbury now has a 5-8 record in finals. Since 2017, Canterbury has won 57 out of 64 matches.
Waikato 27 (Kaea Nepia, Veisana Maturikii-Fakalelu, Lela Ieremia, Grace Houpapa-Barrett, tries; Kaea Nepia 2 con, pen ) Canterbury 25 (Emma Whinney, Laura Bayfield, Riko Yoshida tries; Abigail Paton 2 con, 2 pen). HT: 17-17