Wairarapa nail win over Bush at death

Wairarapa came from behind to beat Bush by the narrowest of margins, 20-19, at Pahiatua yesterday.

The game was played in front of a good-sized crowd in dry conditions, although it was slippery underfoot.

Wairarapa pressed from the first whistle and were rewarded for their early endeavours with an unconverted try to Tevita Isaac.

Bush hit back with two penalties from close range by fullback Jackson Clince, sandwiched between a penalty slotted by Tipene Haira for Wairarapa.

Haira then added to the Wairarapa tally by crossing for a try, which he converted. That gave Wairarapa a 15-6 lead at the break.

In the second half the Bush forwards dominated, laying a platform in possession and territory from which Rupeni Tamani crossed for a try, converted by Jackson Clince.

Two dropped goals from half back Jordan Bennett-Davis saw Bush take a deserved 19-15 lead but the final result swung on two late Bush kickable penalties, both of which flew wide.

Bush were made to pay when Wiremu Grace dotted down wide out almost on full time, to give Wairarapa the victory.

Bush flanker Johan van Vliet had a strong game and Wairarapa lock Gareth van Dalen was secure in the lineout and put in some telling runs.

Hooker Ihe Namana had a strong game for Wairarapa in defence while James Goodger impressed with his workrate.

Wairarapa coach Stevie Thompson was a relieved man after the final whistle.

"They took us on up front and were outplaying us" he said. "But the game is over the full 80 minutes. We started well but then fell away, but overall it was a gutsy display considering this was their second game of the weekend".

Wairarapa-Bush coach Mark Rutene and assistant Paddy Gough were sideline, assessing the action.

"We're still looking at the midfield mix in particular," said Rutene. Other positions possibly up for grabs in the Heartland squad included hooker and the quest for a third prop.