Sumner salutes Wairarapa success

One of the most famous names in New Zealand football has congratulated Wairarapa United on their achievement of making the semifinals of the country's most prestigious knockout competition, the Chatham Cup.
Steve Sumner, who made 58 appearances for New Zealand in a glittering career which included being an integral part of the 1982 World Cup campaign, emailed Wairarapa United coach Phil Keinzley within 24 hours of his side's stunning 4-1 quarterfinal defeat of Waitakere City at Carterton's Howard Booth Park last Sunday.
"Heartiest congratulations for your team's magnificent victory over Waitakere ... these type of games are just what the Chatham Cup is all about," Sumner wrote. "It was my favourite domestic trophy to play for and your players and supporters obviously have enjoyed the ride so far. I do so hope you get a draw (semifinal) that suits your team, supporters and town and will encourage you to continue your dream of an ultimate victory ... just as our All Whites of 2010 had a dream ..."
Sumner won a record six Chatham Cup titles, the first of them with Christchurch United in 1973. Others followed in 1975, 1978, 1983 and 1988.