Family loyalties split at big game (+pics)

The Wallace family was out in force on Saturday night at the Rotorua International Stadium. From left are Justin Ansell, Rebecca Prestidge, Gloria Wallace, Tracey Wallace and Rob Wallace. Photo / Ben Fraser

It was probably a quiet drive home for half of the Wallace family on Saturday night.

The Wallaces moved to Bay of Plenty from Taranaki about four years ago and have been split on who to support in the ITM Cup.

Their allegiances came to a head at the weekend, when they visited the Rotorua International Stadium to watch the Bay of Plenty Steamers take on the Taranaki Bulls.

Rob Wallace stayed loyal to the Taranaki cause, while wife Tracey Wallace and mother Gloria Wallace have turned their allegiances to the blue and gold of the Bay.

Image 1 of 17: Bay of Plenty Steamers player Joe Royal with the ball Photo/Ben Fraser

Tracey and Gloria were dressed in blue and gold on Saturday, while Mr Wallace wore the black and yellow of Taranaki, along with Tracey's daughter Rebecca Prestidge and her partner Justin Ansell.

"It was after the first season for me when I switched," Tracey said.

"We moved up here for the better weather and job opportunities and it is closer to family."

Rebecca said they had made their hats years ago for an All Blacks game in Taranaki and would change the colours for whatever team they were supporting. "We made them when we were living in Taranaki ... we have won many things with these hats."

Unfortunately for Tracey and Gloria, the Bay of Plenty Steamers were beaten 32-9.