Rugby: Week nine ITM Cup wrap

Joe Tuineau of Southland makes a break during the round nine ITM Cup match between Southland and Auckland. Photo / Getty Images

Southland and Canterbury were the big winners in week nine of the ITM Cup as three teams from the top five suffered defeats.

The Stags retained the Ranfurly Shield and top spot on Thursday night with a hard earned victory over Auckland, their first over the blue and whites since 1971.

Canterbury moved above Auckland into second spot with a win over old rivals Wellington in front of a packed AMI Stadium on Saturday. Despite the loss Wellington didn't lose ground on the top four after Taranaki suffered at the hands of a strong Hawke's Bay side in Napier.

Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Counties Manukau all kept their playoff hopes alive with round nine wins.

Match reports:

Sunday
Flying Steelers blade the Taniwha
Harbour turn up the froth for fans

Saturday
Donald gets Mooloo attack firing at last
Blistering start gives Magpies winning rhythm
Canterbury reward big crowd with fine win

Friday
Masaga dazzles in the wet

Thursday
Stags courageous under fire

This week:
Thursday: Wellington v Bay of Plenty
Friday: Auckland v Hawke's Bay
Saturday: Northland v Waikato, Otago v Canterbury, Taranaki v Southland
Sunday: Manawatu v Tasman, Counties Manukau v North Harbour

ITM Cup standings