Like most Wellington teams Sacred Heart had big ball carriers. With two injuries collected in their quarter-final Nga Wahine Toa had to box smart and blockbusting runs by Ashley Palu were instrumental in the 39-17 victory.
Nga Wahine Toa's final opponents, Ngati Porou East Coast, had displayed outstanding skills throughout the tournament and had set the benchmark as far as expansive rugby was concerned. Their outside backs boasted blistering speed and they thrived with a game plan which saw them outflank most teams consistently.
With the usual windy Wellington conditions and a bit of prior knowledge of what was to come from Ngati Porou East Coast, Nga Wahine Toa took a physical approach to the game. This tactic paid off as the forwards, lead by Olioli Mua, ran hard, direct lines, continually punching holes in the Ngati Porou East Coast defence.
With the injury toll at three, the team took another injury blow losing their MVP player Harmony Kautai. With stocks running short it was all hands on deck and the bench was left with one reserve. The game at times looked like it was going to fall back into Ngati Porou hands but the physical nature of the game had taken its toll on them and the fight-back was halted. Nga Wahine Toa won the match 44-10.
The team was well lead by their charismatic captain Te Aira Te Pou who, with her midfield partners Teani Feleu and Kautai, caused havoc on attacking teams with their devastating tackles and free-flowing plays.
Although the main aims of the tournament were development and introducing the code to young females it was still a tremendous achievement for Nga Wahine Toa to win the title with an unbeaten run. A highlight of the event was world champion Black Ferns Selica Winiata and Kendra Cocksedge turning up to congratulate all participants.
The tournament was well organised and well attended, and it is hoped more Hawke's Bay teams can attend next year.
- Thomas Te Pou
