Rugby: Storm closing in on 14th title

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The Auckland Storm are on the brink of an astonishing 14th women's NPC title (out of a possible 15) since 1999.

And some of the dynamic rugby they played in 2014 would suggest it would have to be a superb Waikato display to deny them this afternoon in the neutral venue of New Plymouth, as the televised curtainraiser to the ITM Cup Premiership final.

The Storm can again upstage their male counterparts, who fell at the semifinal stage last weekend.

Under the captaincy of loose forward Lydia Crossman, and laden with Black Ferns, Auckland have racked up eight wins in a row with an irresistible blend of staunch defence and expansive attacking rugby. The side includes halfback Emma Jensen and hooker Fiao'o Fa'amausili, and young, enthusiastic talent, many of whom were raised on a sevens diet.

"It's been huge in the squad," said coach Kallum Adams. "The youngsters have brought a different kind of energy. They are young and fit and have damned good skills."

Another key factor is the determination of some of the Black Ferns, disappointed with their Rugby World Cup failure in August. They have returned with an extra edge and channelled that into quality outings for the Storm.

"It was evident even in the first trainings and games. That [RWC] was a sour note for them and they wanted to set an example, as they always do," said Adams.

The leading tryscorer in the competition is wing Mele Hufanga, who is playing her way into Black Ferns consideration with her prolific feats. She will likely mark Black Fern Honey Hireme.

Waikato, into their first ever NPC final, have several other more than useful players and held Auckland to 21-3 in the round-robin.

"They are tough and have some players who have been around the circuit for a while," said Adams.

Last weekend, Auckland defeated Canterbury to regain the JJ Stewart Trophy, which the Storm held from 1995-2013 until they lost to Otago, who in turn lost it to Canterbury.

Waikato beat Counties Manukau 29-10 to overtake Canterbury into second position.