Ponsonby won a record eighth consecutive Gallaher Shield final after defeating a gallant Grammar Carlton team 20-18 at Auckland Grammar School yesterday.
The two tries-to-nil victory was in doubt until the final whistle and Grammar Carlton will rue shelling two clear cut opportunities in the first half, especially the last play when winger Watisoni Lotawa knocked on in front of the posts.
Ponsonby went into the break ahead 13-9, thanks to a try to hooker Joe Royal after a text book 20 metre driving maul from a lineout, but Grammar Carlton defended stoutly to keep in touch.
The game looked all over when Ponsonby replacement Paula Kavienga slid over in the corner at the start of the second spell and the impressive Rocky Khan slotted from the chalk for a 20-9 lead. But inspired by the game's standout player in No 8 Onosa'i Auva'a, Grammar Carlton began to dominate territory and the set pieces. Michigan Lam kicked three penalties to close the gap to 20-18 and set up a riveting final 20 minutes.
But Grammar Carlton's lack of accuracy in their midfield passing plus poor field kicking enabled Ponsonby to dominate territory and the perennial champions held on for victory.
