Hawke's Bay have successfully defended the Ranfurly Shield for the first time in their new reign by embarrassing challengers Otago 41-0.
The Magpies started the match at a blistering pace, running in three tries in the first 10 minutes.
By the end of the first half the home side had scored five tries, including a brace to winger Ryan Tongia.
Ryan Tongia Photo: PHOTOSPORT
With the score 31-nil at half time, a team talk from Otago coach Tony Brown stemmed the flow of points in the second half with Hawke's Bay only crossing the visitors line once more.
Earlier in Hamilton, Waikato withstood a late charge from Counties to win 26-21.
The Mooloos got out to a 19-0 half-time lead before Counties coach Tana Umaga rang the changes in the second spell, introducing five players to turn the momentum of the game.
The visitors couldn't stop the Waikato winger Joe Webber scoring his third try with 20 minutes to play, putting the Steeler's unlikely comeback just out of reach.
Waikato roll the maul Photo: PHOTOSPORT
