The birthday celebrations started a day early for Taranaki fullback Daryl Lilley yesterday.
Lilley, who turns 27 today, scored a hat-trick of tries and kicked four conversions to help Taranaki to a crushing win over Southland at New Plymouth.
In a champagne finish for the 8000-strong crowd, Lilley's triescame in a four-minute burst, and each was the result of sweeping attacking play by Taranaki and excellent support play by Lilley.
The first, in the 72nd minute, came after captain Andy Slater snapped up a loose pass and Taranaki attacked from inside their own half.
The second, two minutes later from the kickoff, came after a blistering run by replacement winger Chris Woods and good support from centre Bryce Robins. And the third, after another burst by Woods, set Lilley up in the 76th minute.
Toss in another try by replacement winger Shayne Austin on fulltime, and Taranaki hit the 50-mark to drag themselves back into playoffs contention.
Taranaki had the bonus point safely tucked away by halftime, thanks to a try to prop Gordon Slater. But any thought of a one-sided romp after Taranaki led 28-0 at the break were quickly dispelled. Southland stormed back with two converted tries in the opening 10 minutes of the second half.
For 20 minutes, the two sides slugged it out between the 22s, before Taranaki struck.
Their finishing burst ripped the heart out of the Southlanders, who now have two weeks to lick their wounds before they play Bay of Plenty in Invercargill.
"I can't recall scoring three tries in a first-class match," Lilley said.
"The game just opened up. I was lucky. I was just finishing off after other guys made breaks."
The warning signs were obvious for Southland early in the match. The Taranaki scrum was making life hectic for Southland and the visitors took 35 minutes to finally make it into the Taranaki 22.
Taranaki's eight-try-to-two effort had plenty in it to admire. The platform was laid up front. The Slater brothers, flanker Brent Thompson, lock Paul Tito and No 8 Campbell Feather led the way.
With good, fast ball, the backs showed their skill. Wing Faapulou Soolefai was always a handful for the Southland defence, and Lilley, Robins and second five-eighth Mepi Faoagali were strong in midfield.
Taranaki head north for a fascinating contest with leaders North Harbour this weekend.
