Rugby: Wellington thrash Northland

Wellington, armed with a backline humming with returning All Blacks, overpowered Northland 41-7 in an Air NZ Cup rugby match at Whangarei today.

The bonus point win saw Wellington retain third spot in the standings for the second week running and sets up their push for a home semifinal, with North Harbour and Tasman left to play.

Conrad Smith, wing Hosea Gear and second five-eighth Tamati Ellison, returned after a number of weeks on the injury list to play strong roles in today's win along with fellow All Black Cory Jane.

Smith was his usual elegant self, showing none of the hamstring problems that had plagued him for some six weeks, while Gear powered over for two tries which increased his season's tally to 10.

It was a sentimental match for Northland - when first five-eighth David Holwell ran on for the start, it was his 100th match for the province.

Wellington, without really intending to, helped with Northland's celebration of Holwell's achievement by letting them score first.

It was a popular try too, by hardworking skipper and fullback Jared Payne.

Payne pounced when Smith's attempt at stabbing the ball through was blocked, and he gathered the rebound to run unchallenged over 45m to dot down.

Although Northland put up a spirited performance in the first half to hold Wellington to 17-7, they were a spent force in the second half.

Wellington recovered from the early setback to score two tries through Tamati Ellison and hooker Ged Robinson for a 17-7 lead at halftime.

With Wellington's forwards gaining the upper hand in the second half which ensured a plentiful supply of ball for their dangerous backline, there was little Northland could do but spend most of the half defending their line.

Halfback Alby Mathewson, who had a strong game, was rewarded with a try which was followed by Gear's double.

- NZPA