It wasn't until 2001, the third year of the national women's competition, that Canterbury began to make their mark.
That season they registered first-ever Lion Foundation Cup victories over Wellington, Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Otago.
Then, in a home semifinal against Wellington, it all came unstuck, the visitors winning 15-3.
It is a scenario that has been on the mind of Canterbury coach Ernie Goodhue in the build-up to his side's semifinal against the same opponents in Christchurch tomorrow.
After losing to Auckland Storm in the first round Canterbury have beaten Wellington, Waikato and Otago Spirit.
Now for the second time they are 80 minutes away from a first final appearance.
Asked if he was confident of success, Goodhue gave a qualified yes.
"I was two years ago as well," he said. "And it's pretty much the same this time around.
"I think we're clearly the second-best team, but it's a one-off game. It's all about who prepares the best.
"If the Wellington forwards get on a roll they can dominate a game. But I don't think their backs can win the game for them.
"Apart from Auckland, I think we have the best backline. We just need to get quick, clean ball to get them going."
The visitors also have an enviable semifinal record, having lost just once in four previous visits to this stage, against Auckland.
It is impossible to go past Auckland in the other semifinal.
They beat Otago 56-7 a fortnight ago, but left the field so disappointed with their performance they had off-field meetings before their next match to discuss how they could bring more enjoyment to their game.
The resolution was that they would discard their power style for all-out attack.
It was trialled against the Wellington last weekend, with some spectacular rugby ensuing.
Given the skills within the Auckland squad, and the relative inexperience of Otago, the home team should come through comfortably at Bell Park in Pakuranga.
Canterbury ready for the capital invaders
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