ITM Cup round-three: Taranaki surprises Waikato
Taranaki completed a surprising upset over Waikato on the road in Hamilton, in the two sides' third round ITM Cup match-up over the weekend.
Taranaki were able to take advantage of their opportunities, and exploit an undisciplined Waikato side. The away team got out to an impressive first half lead, which proved too much for the favoured Waikato club. In the end Taranaki was able to hold onto victory in a three try effort, winning 33-23.
Recap
Taranaki was able to take the lead through a lucky turn of events as Willie Ripia hit the upright on a penalty attempt, and the ball bounced fortunately to Kurt Baker, who tossed the ball over to Andre Taylor for the opening try. Ripia was able to add the conversion to give the guests a 7-0 lead.
Waikato got on the board with a penalty from Trent Renata shortly after the Taranaki try, and then added another three points to cut the lead to 7-6.
Ripia and Renata exchanged penalties again early in the half to adjust the score to 10-9.
Unfortunately for Waikato, Taranaki were the next to strike at the half-hour mark, as Baker and Taylor linked up once again, except this time with Baker claiming the glory. Ripia hammered home the conversion, and then wasted no time notching another try to give Taranaki a convincing 20-9 lead heading in to halftime.
After the break Taranaki put through another try, this one courtesy of Scott Waldrom to extend the visitor’s lead.
Waikato attempted to mount a comeback, getting tries from both Romana Graham and Save Tokula, but it was too little too late for the home side as Taranaki managed to steal a victory on the road from the favoured Mooloo’s.
Taranaki played a strong team game, with three different players dotting down for tries. Nevertheless, Ripia was exceptional, making all the important kicks from the tee, and accounting for 14 of his side's points.
Waikato left their offence until too late, as they allowed Taranaki to build an insurmountable first half lead. They received a strong game from Renata, but it was not enough to seal victory, ending the game down three tries to two.
Analysis
Taranaki have showed strong form this season, recording their third win in as many games over the weekend. A surprise to be sitting in fourth, Taranaki has performed well and will hope to maintain their strong play into round two.
Waikato on the other hand have had a very up-and-down season. They have been unable to remain consistent, and are paying for it in eighth right now. The Hamilton side will need to get back to last season’s form if they hope to challenge in the second round.
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