Grammar-Carlton won the Gallaher Shield in 2012. Photo / Natalie Slade
Auckland premier club rugby action kicks off today with 15 teams - down from 16 - contending for the coveted Gallaher Shield.
The final is set down for August 3, but there is plenty of competitive footy before the business end of the season, with the round-robin competition for the
Alan McEvoy Memorial Trophy. Each side will play 14 games before the playoffs, which include the top eight Gallaher Shield.
Teachers-Eastern, champions in 1999, have opted out of premier play in 2013. They are in the throes of a merger with Grammar-Carlton and are keen to build up their resources. So each premier club will have a bye.
The new name is Maungarua, but this is not a new club, as such. This is Te Papapa-Mt Wellington, which have been renamed after the two hills which take in the catchment area, Maungakiekie and Mt Wellington.
Setting the benchmark are Grammar-Carlton, who hold three of the four major Auckland premier club rugby trophies - the Gallaher, Alan McEvoy and the 2013 pre-season Waka Nathan Challenge Cup. The latter was won last weekend, 23-11 at the expense of Waitemata in the final. Utility back and Auckland rep Dave Thomas, playing second five, sealed the win with a late try. Second year coach Richie Harris has a stack of experienced blended with some young talent, such as 2012 NZ Schools captain and loose forward So'otala Fa'aso'o.
