One point to Strathmore with seconds remaining and Jeff the Ref blows the whistle. Penalty. Up steps Whangamomona's first five Matiu Welch. No pressure son ... over. There is a God! Whanga lift the Dean Cup 18-16 from Strathmore and so the most prized silverware in Taranaki rugby heads east for the hills.
The much-anticipated first try went to Strathmore's Josh Edwards who was missing in action for his wee slip. Then Whanga struck back with a try to flanker Sami Werder to make half-time score 10-8 to Strathmore.
Whanga struck again in the second half with a try to Sami's brother Thomas Werder who played a blinder and was Whanga's Player of the Day.
Strathmore slotted a couple of penalties to take a slender lead. The last one, compliments of one touch judge who, rumour has it, had been approached by Lou Vincent before the game. Then the winning goal right on full time for the Men in Black.
Whanga's captain Harry Harris led by example and fired up his team with Whanga's coach, Wal Lobb, never doubting the outcome.
It was great to see some young blood on both sides and David Avery and Jack Jordan (Strathmore) and Reece Pratt (Whanga) all had strong games.
But wait there's more.
Netball's Jean Cup also heads to the Republic with Pat's side beating Strathmore 39-20. It just doesn't get any better than that.
Amber Bellringer was Whanga's Player of the Day. Her shooting was out of this world and she linked well with the mid-court of Laura Lobb, and the Swan sisters - Maria and Ava, who worked hard all game.
Leah Iremonger, in defence, had her opponents quivering. Strathmore's Hannah Kelly had a strong game and was their Player of the Day.
Congratulations to Strathmore's new life members - Jim Hutchinson, Cockie McBride, Maka Paki Paki and the late Donna Jury.
The Dean Cup Centennial book, which Donna compiled, is now finished, thanks to Mike O'Neil. Order a copy from Kerri McBride for $40.
We remember too the late Ritchie Coles who was a great Strathmore player and supporter and the late Lane Penn who was an avid Dean Cup supporter.
As every staunch fan of the Dean Cup knows it is not over till the fat lady sings so it's off east to the Republic on August 2 for the last game this season between Whanga and Strathmore. See you all there.