A jubilant Hastings Rugby & Sports have taken out the 2020 premier Maddison Trophy club rugby final, beating Taradale 22-16.
The tight final was played before about 800 supporters, seated appropriately at McLean Park according to Covid 19 Level 2 regulations, under clear skies with some swirling wind in Napier.
In a see-saw match, Hastings was first to cross the chalk with a try in the 11th minute, with Taradale later dotting down in the 27th minute. Both were converted, with both teams also slotting a penalty to make for an even 10-10 at half time.
Taradale dominated the first 20 minutes of the second half, nailing an early penalty and another at the 23rd minute - deserving their slim lead, higher possession and ascendancy.