24 Aug 2013

Otago break 56-year Shield drought

7:18 am on 24 August 2013

The Otago rugby team has upset Waikato 26-19 to win the Ranfurly Shield for the first time since 1957.

Otago were behind in all the statistics except the scoreboard at Waikato Stadium, the visitors making twice as many tackles but still leading 16-13 at half-time.

The scores were locked at 19-19 at the 65-minute mark, before a converted try gave Otago a lead they held until the final whistle.

Both goalkickers were 100 percent accurate, Hayden Parker kicking four penalties and converting Otago's two tries while Trent Renata also slotted four penalties and converted Waikato's lone try.

Otago's first challenge comes on Sunday week when they defend the Shield against Hawke's Bay in Dunedin.

In the night's other provincial rugby game, Wellington signalled their title intentions with a 29-10 demolition of neighbours Taranaki in New Plymouth.