A happy return to glory for Wairarapa

Birthday boy Simanu Simanu's dazzling hat-trick helped Wairarapa Bush end a 24-year NPC title drought as they beat Horowhenua-Kapiti 28-23 in the third division final at Masterton yesterday.

The hosts controlled the first 60 minutes of a willing final at Memorial Park but stalled over the final quarter, nearly allowing Horowhenua-Kapiti to snatch victory after they had trailed 6-25.

The fightback was halted only by a last-minute penalty to Paddy Rimene, confirming Wairarapa Bush's first title since the 1981 North Island second division crown.

It was a win built on some strong forward play and the skill of midfield backs Nathan Couch and Simanu.

Couch was at the heart of three of their four tries, while Simanu's speed and footwork saw him finish three of them.

Simanu, who turned 24 today, crossed for his first try in the fifth minute after a Rimene break and had his second just before halftime to carry them to a 15-3 lead.

Flanker Sam Henderson dashed over soon after the break, following good work from Couch, and Simanu snared his third when he toed the ball for 50m after a handling mistake by Horowhenua-Kapiti No 8 Laki Vitale. It was Simanu's 13th try of the season, more than any other third division player.

Down 6-25, the visitors sprang to life, scoring three tries in 14 minutes. The first went to inspirational captain and flanker Craig Tansley. Winger Thomas Ati Iloa charged over, followed by a slick try to replacement back Daniel Stemp, but it wasn't enough.

Division Three

Wairarapa Bush 28

Horowhenua-Kapiti 23

- NZPA