43
44
The Shield Moves On
The last minute and Bays supporters stream on to the ground where the referee had a little trouble in getting the game going again
Soane's last penalty goal went right through the middle
Allan's try under the post is greeted with jubilation by Bays' players
Don't look now, Derrol, but you're about to be clobbered.
45
Well, the Seddon Shield has gone. Golden Bay-Mo-tueka took it. And a startled, disbelieving Nelson Rugby public are still figuring out how it happened. After all, the Bays got a thumping last time Nelson played them. And they hadn't had a win in 23 matches over four years. Could complacency have paid its part in Nelson's loss? Maybe, but Rob Wratt, John Soane and his 11-point boot and 13 other dedicated and determined Bays men played by far the greatest part in this unbelievable reverse. Let's summarise the match thus: Bays won the first half hands down and led 6-nil at half time and on the play seemed unlucky not to be further ahead; Nelson retaliated with two quick tries and the tide turned slightly in Nelson's favour; Soane kicked his third penalty goal and with Bays once more on the rampage a try by J. Allan put the issue beyond doubt, notwithstanding a last minute try by Nelson. Full marks to Bays for a fiery and well-deserved victory by 1 points to 11.