Tonight Southland did something for the first time in thirty nine years, they beat Auckland. More than that though, they added another defence of the Ranfurly shield and extended their lead at the top of the 2010 ITM Cup standings with a 9-6 win over the second placed Aucklanders.
There were no trys in a gritty performance by the Stags, Auckland threatened at the death but Southland’s defence was resolute. Auckland contributed to what was a great game, played in freezing conditions from kick-off, with a stiff breeze and sleety showers on an already soaked pitch.
Man of the match has to go to Jason Rutledge, who was phenomenal for the Stags, popping up all of the park when required, spoiling the ball and making crucial tackles when they mattered. A classic shield game, was a fine end to a tough week for the Southland province, due the harsh weather affecting the area. The scoreline in the end was decided by Robbie Robinson’s three penalties for Southland to just two from Matt Berquist of Auckland, after it had been 3-3 at half time.