In another final featuring a South Island team up against some northerners, Southland and Bay of Plenty took the field for what promised to be a beauty.
When these teams met on Day 1, Bay of Plenty took the honours in a tight 5-4 victory but Southland had other ideas this time and shot off to a superb start. They were soon away to a 5-1 lead after smart ball movement and efficient finishing plays put them in good stead.
The second half began in the same way but it was Bay with the momentum. They were soon within spitting distance of Southland but in the end they left their run too late and Southland were able to capitalise when it mattered most.
BOP utilised their traditional open style of play and moved the ball frequently, to create space and look for holes in the Southland defence, a tactic that works well in the dry, but was not as effective in the slippery and wet conditions. Southland on the other hand used classic wet weather touch tactics, kept the ball in close and tight and focused on retaining possession and field position, tactics that ultimately paid off for them with a 8-4, and well-deserved Championship victory.
Last Modified on 05/03/2012 09:37