Rugby: HB win Hurricanes Development comp

THE CHAMPS: The Hawke's Bay Development rugby team which won the Hurricanes Development competition on Saturday. PHOTO/DEAN HALES

A dominant third quarter was the key to Hawke's Bay's inaugural win of the Hurricanes Development rugby competition on Saturday.

After trailing 19-13 at halftime, Hawke's Bay Development beat Wellington Development 44-34 at Napier's McLean Park to complete a three-game unbeaten run in the competition.

It is the first time since the competition began in 2009 that Wellington hasn't won it.

"After losing all three of our pre-season games winning all three competition games was a real turn-around for us," delighted manager Mike Smith said.

Lock Josh Eden-Whaitiri and former Magpies No 8 Joseph Penitito were inspirational figures in the Bay pack. Eden-Whaitiri was particularly impressive at lineout time and with his kick off receptions.

Penitito made numerous powerful thrusts which provided plenty of attacking opportunities for second five-eighth Cole Eru, who scored two tries, and centre Neria Fomai.

Hawke's Bay first five-eighth Dan Snee did well to land six of his eight attempts at goal, four conversions and two penalties.

Openside flanker George McPherson was another to shine for the Bay team, which will take on Canterbury Development at Napier's Park Island on Thursday.

Hawke's Bay's under-14 team completed an unbeaten run for the season with their fourth consecutive victory, 47-13, against their Manawatu counterparts in the other McLean Park curtainraiser. Mobile lock Hugh Taylor was the Bay's player-of-the-match.

Openside flanker Daemon Brough had his best game of the season for the hosts and fullback Hoera Stephenson shone with his goalkicking, six successes from seven attempts, and general play.