The first Ratana Rosebowl Challenge of the season took place on Saturday, when current holders Rangiuru squared off with Judea at Centennial Park in Te Puke.
The Ratana Rosebowl was first presented by the Ratana Church in the 1920s and is seen as the prized equivalent of the Ranfurly Shield for Central North Island Maori clubs.
In a game described as being played in the true spirit of Ratana Rosebowl rugby, with penalty goal attempts turned down to run the ball, Rangiuru came from behind at half time to prevail 17-14.
Judea took it to the Rosebowl holders from the opening whistle and led 14-10 at half time, courtesy of two converted tries. Rangiuru came back in the second spell with their third touchdown, converted by Ngatai Kingi. Two Rangiuru veterans, Eru Powhare and Mikaeri Whareaorere, who are in their 20th and 19th seasons of Ratana Rosebowl rugby respectively, scored a try apiece, with Huston Jacobs also dotting down.
Right on fulltime, Judea made a concerted charge on the try line but the Rangiuru defence held firm, with Rangiuru holding on to the prestigious Maori rugby prize by a three-point margin. Rangiuru will defend the Ratana Rosebowl in two weeks' time, when Rangataua pay a visit to Centennial Park.
