Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Canterbury claimed their fifth national rugby title last night, beating Wellington 28-20 in Christchurch and the assistant coach Tabai Matson says it was traditional Canterbury defence that got his side home.

Canterbury dominated the first half of the game but in classic Wellington style the Lions came storming back late in the second half.

However the dogged red and black defence held on to seal a second consecutive Air New Zealand Cup title.

Matson says the benchmark of a good Canterbury side is their pride and determination and the way in which they kept Wellington at bay was a testament to the character of the team.