Rugby: Magpies defend shield but Dagg's season over

Israel Dagg fends off an Auckland player. PHOTO/PAUL TAYLOR

All Black rugby fullback Israel Dagg's ITM Cup season is over.

Dagg dislocated his shoulder with nine minutes remaining of the Magpies seventh round 17-12 win against Auckland at Napier's McLean Park tonight.
This was the Magpies 11th successful Ranfurly Shield defence in their latest tenure and Dagg's and second five-eighth Andrew Horrell's 50th first-class games for the Bay.

Auckland led 12-10 at halftime and the Magpies were fortunate Auckland pivot Simon Hickey missed both of his attempts at goal in the second half after nailing all four in the first.

Magpies lock Mark Abbott was the player of the match with some massive defensive work and powerful carries.
First five-eighth Ihaia West was also classy scoring the match-winning try which he converted in the 63rd minute.

Scorers: Hawke's Bay 17 (Brendon O'Connor, Ihaia West tries; West 2 cons, pen) Auckland 12 (Simon Hickey 4 pens). HT: Auckland 12-10