The Shield Moves On

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The last minute and Bays supporters stream on to the ground where the referee had a little trouble in getting the game going again

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Soane's last penalty goal went right through the middle

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Allan's try under the post is greeted with jubilation by Bays' players

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Don't look now, Derrol, but you're about to be clobbered.

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.

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It was Rob Wratt's jumping in the lineouts that played a big part in Bays' victory

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Nelson selector Manley Bowater had a few things to say at half time

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Neil Fitzsitmmons prepares to meet a defender