Bay of Plenty's hopes of making the provincial rugby championship semi-finals were dashed when they were upset 36-24 by Northland in their final round match in Whangarei.
Needing other results to go their way and preferably a bonus point win to help matters further, Bay of Plenty found the home side in a determined form as the Taniwha farewelled veteran first five David Holwell.
Northland scored five tries to three and led 17-14 at half-time.
The Bay finish sixth and Northland eighth for now.
