The Shield Passes On

After withstanding challenges from Marlborough and Golden Bay-Motueka, Nelson succumbed to the power and fire of Buller and in doing so lost the Seddon Shield. For much of the game Nelson was within striking distance of Buller's score and with only a few minutes to go had a chance of pulling the game out of the fire with a penalty goal. The attempt, however, failed, and Buller went on to add another three points to win 14-9. Few of the crowd which saw the game will disagree that Buller would have been unlucky to lose this match. Its forwards gave an exhibition of power Rugby which, in comparison, made Nelson's efforts appear lethargic. Lack of protection close to rucks and lineouts nullified the efficiency of the Nelson backs which at no time in the game were allowed any freedom. The Nelson half, Trevor Osborne, and first five-eighths, Derrol Bowater, took quite a drubbing from fast-breaking forwards. Nelson had its chances but could not finish them off. Buller did.