The Ranfurly Shield is staying within the ITM Cup this season after Hawke's Bay dispatched Mid-Canterbury 57-12 in their final pre-season challenge.
Hawke's Bay celebrate with the Ranfurly Shield. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
For a short while in the second half the visitors must have thought they were in with a chance as they lead Hawke's Bay 12-11.
Mid-Canterbury's defence couldn't hold though, as they let in six tries in the final 25 minutes to dash the hopes of the Log o' Wood moving into the Heartland Championship.
The skills of former All Black Zac Guilford and Blues first five Ihaia West proved too elusive for the Mid-Canterbury defensive line as they ran out of breath at McLean Park in Napier.
Northland have the next challenge on August 16th.
