Ruthless Canterbury end BOP dream

9.22pm

A ruthless Canterbury ended the fairytale NPC first division run of Bay of Plenty emphatically in Christchurch tonight, winning their semifinal 44-12.

The result sets up a classic final against Wellington next weekend -- a clash of the two teams clearly in the best form in the latter half of the competition.

It was one-way traffic in the first half at Jade Stadium tonight as an All Black-laden Canterbury opened up a 23-0 lead.

Bay of Plenty, who barely looked like scoring in the first spell, scored a try through winger Anthony Tahana in the second minute after halftime.

But were effectively shut out for the remainder as steady rain descended, only crossing again in the final minute when Tahana bagged his second.

Canterbury fullback Daniel Carter had a perfect eight-from-eight kicking night with the boot for a 19-point return, successfully converting the five tries to second five-eighth Aaron Mauger, No 8 Sam Broomhall in the first half and then to lock Chris Jack, centre Casey Laulala and reserve prop Campbell Johnstone.

Bay of Plenty, who had defended soundly all season, were prised apart by the relentless pressure of the home side, who thrived off turnover possession and quick ruck ball.

Canterbury, who also ended Bay of Plenty's brief Ranfurly Shield tenure earlier this year, also ended the dream run of the little-fancied union in the NPC. The visitors had reached the semifinals for the first time since playoffs were introduced to the competition.

They tried to play catcup rugby in the second half but the wet conditions meant such tactics were futile.

Canterbury's best try was a brilliant team effort which swept 70m and saw Broomball cross while Laulala 's individual effort was his seventh try of the season and was scored in the elusive running style that has marked his season.

- NZPA


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