Despite trying playing conditions the Federation League fixture between Wanganui City and Team Taranaki at Wembley Park lived up to its pre-match billing with City falling narrowly to their visitors 4-3.
Bitterly cold conditions, a slippery surface and strong breeze had all the ingredients to make the match a douraffair, so it was to all the players' credits that they were able to provide some goal-fest entertainment for the hardy spectators who braved the elements.
It was City who started the brightest in the early kick-off and were value for their 18th minute lead.
Kyle Graham-Luke made no mistake from the penalty spot after Anthony Bell, who was causing problems for the Taranaki defence, was brought down in the area.
Zane Robinson was able to add another goal for the hosts to extend their advantage, before the visitors sparked into life.
Maybe it was the cold weather, or the earlier than normal 2pm kick-off time, but for the first 30 minutes, Taranaki looked lethargic and uninterested.
But as seems to be the norm over the last few seasons when these two sides meet, one or the other will start slow, then kick into life and give themselves a chance after conceding the lead.
And as in their round match earlier this season, it was to be Team Taranaki who prevailed after a storming last quarter to the game to take maximum points.
Even with player availability being a real headache for the locals, to a man the side showed some more of the recent passion, commitment and sheer hard work to almost earn some much deserved reward for their combined efforts.
A Jordan Joblin-Hall strike had City sitting with a two goal buffer at 3-1 up, but to Taranaki's credit, they too showed fortitude and fought back to take the honours.
It was a good spirited game given the ground conditions could well have caused issues for all concerned, had mistimed tackling come into play.
Results:
Federation League: Wanganui City lost to Team Taranaki 4-3.
Western Premiership: Wanganui Athletic 1sts beat Wanganui City Reserves 4-2.
Turn to Page 29 for more on the Western Premiership local derby.
