Ponsonby v Waitemata
Eden Park, 2.30pm
In a repeat of last year's Gallaher Shield final, Waitemata are looking to stop Ponsonby winning four titles in a row.
And, if any side in the competition is going to upset Ponsonby, it will be Waitemata who have played
an exciting brand of rugby this season. With their big forwards and pacy backs, they are capable of putting an end to Ponsonby's unbeaten run this year. A key figure will be first five-eighths Mana Ashford. In recent weeks, the veteran play-maker's return has sparked the Waitemata backline and led to some attractive running rugby.
His opposite, Brett Williams, could be the difference in a close final. His accurate goalkicking has been a major factor in Ponsonby's recent success. Williams was missing from the first encounter between these sides this season when Waitemata blew a three-try lead and allowed Ponsonby to steal an amazing comeback victory. Although this shows Waitemata can compete with the champions, they do not have a superboot like Williams to fall back on.
In recent weeks, Ponsonby have shown their depth with several players missing through representative duty. One player to catch the eye has been midfielder Winston Stanley, who is carrying on his famous last name at the club with some outstanding performances.
One advantage for Waitemata might be the tough two games they have had in the past fortnight against Marist. In contrast, Ponsonby have had an easy run, such as their 36-0 semi-final win against Waitakere City, and may not be as well conditioned for an intense, high-pressure game.
Ponsonby are looking to create history. They have won the Gallaher Shield 28 times, far more than any other Auckland club. The last time a club achieved the four-peat was from 1924 to 1927 and it was ... Ponsonby.
