Canterbury won a tight encounter against Wellington who now have 5 losing finalists medals. This was without a doubt a game of missed chances and lack of penetration from Wellington whilst Canterbury took the only chance offered. Canterbury went in at half-time leading 3-7 thanks to a try from No.6 Hayden Hopgood converted by Colin Slade.

The second half produced more of the same as Wellington had the bulk of possession and territory but in the wet conditions turned over ball. Canterbury closed up shop and defended to the end. Just giving Piri Weepu his second penalty conversion of the game on 47 minutes. This was as good as it got and the final whistle saw a score-line of:

Wellington 6 Canterbury 7

Teams

Wellington: Neemia Tialata, Dane Coles, John Schwalger, Ross Filipo, Jeremy Thrush, Chris Masoe, Serge Lilo, Rodney So’oialo, Alby Mathewson, Piri Weepu (c), Hosea Gear, Tamati Ellison, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Cory Jane.

Reserves: Ged Robinson, Jacob Ellison, Tim Fairbrother, Thomas Waldrom, Api Naikatini, Daniel Kirkpatrick, Tane Tu’ipulotu.

Canterbury: Wyatt Crockett, Corey Flynn, Greg Somerville, Michael Paterson, Isaac Ross, Hayden Hopgood, Richie McCaw, Kieran Read (c), Tyson Keats, Colin Slade, Sean Maitland, Tim Bateman, Casey Laulala, Paul Williams, Scott Hamilton.

Reserves: 16 Steve Fualau, Owen Franks, Nasi Manu, George Whitelock, Steve Alfeld, Hamish Gard, Adam Whitelock.

REFEREE: Bryce Lawrence