Auckland vs Waikato (Doubleheader)
Saturday 31st August
FMG Stadium Waikato
Auckland Storm vs Waikato FPC
Auckland Gulls vs Waikato NPC

Auckland Storm to learn from defeat

Auckland Storm captain Eloise Blackwell expressed her thoughts after their match against Waikato, stating, "I'm glad this happened now in pool play so we can learn."

The team faced their first loss of the 2024 season, falling 65-17 to Waikato in the Farah Palmer Cup (FPC), sponsored by Bunnings Warehouse. 

Despite the defeat, a highlight for Auckland was their tackling effort, outscoring Waikato 81-55 in the tackle count during the first half.

Waikato broke through Auckland's defence, scoring four tries in the second half with standout performances from Lela Iremia, Veisinia Fakalelu, Ariana Bayler, and Rina Paraone, who scored twice. 

At halftime, Waikato led 39-0.

Auckland tried to catch up in the second half, with strong contributions from their bench players like Cilia-Marie Po'e Tofaeono and Danny-elle Fesola’i, who made significant tackles and running meters in their march at a comeback.

Auckland found their form from their last three wins with tries from Rori Wood, Po’e Tofaeono, and Elizabeth Moiomoi.

However, Waikato's strong start and additional four tries in the second half secured a crucial win for their campaign.

FINAL SCORES -

Auckland: 17
Tries: C.Po'e Tofaeono (18), R.Wood (17) and E.Moiomoi (6).
Conversions: B.Sorensen-Mcgee (15)

Waikato: 65
Tries: L.Ieremia(14), V. Fakalelu (3), R.Paraone (13) x2, A.Bayler (9), G.Houpapa-Barrett (2), M.Tairakena (23), C.Semple (12) and R.Du Plessis (21).
Conversions: C.Semple x6
Penalties: C.Semple

Auckland Gull's scrum dominates

After the passing of Kiingi Tūheitia this week, the Waikato-Tainui community mourned the loss of a Māori leader, giving the Waikato rugby team extra motivation.

Waikato beat Auckland 39-21 at FMG Stadium.

The Gulls' forwards were strong, using the same strategies that helped them score in earlier games with effective pick-and-go plays.

Auckland's scrum coach, Census Johnson, will be pleased with his forwards, as they maintained a 100% success rate in scrums.

However, it was Waikato’s backs who shone. Winger Daniel Sinkinson scored two tries, Aki Tuivailala scored in the corner, and Aaron Cruden ran 60 meters to score his first try of the season.

Auckland responded with a try when Adrian Choat broke through and passed to Anton Segner to score.

At halftime, Waikato led 32-7.

Both teams struggled with wet conditions in the second half. Auckland tried to narrow the gap, with Nigel Ah Wong scoring his fourth try and Segner assisting Mills Sanerivi for another.

Despite Auckland’s efforts, Waikato's strong first-half lead held, and Sinkinson secured a hat-trick with an intercept try.

Next, the Auckland Gulls will prepare for the crucial 'Battle of the Bridge' against North Harbour at Eden Park on Saturday, September 7th.

FINAL SCORES -

Auckland: 21
Tries: A.Segner, N.Ah Wong and M.Sanerivi.
Conversions: Z.Sullivan x3

Waikato: 39
Tries: D.Sinkinson x3 and A.Cruden
Conversions: A.Cruden x3
Penalty: A.Cruden

For any interview requests please get in touch with Rugby Media Manager Aaron Ryan at aaron.ryan@aucklandrugby.co.nz or +64210373232

Article added: Saturday 31 August 2024