Waitomo Group Waikato FPC have suffered their first defeat of the season after going down 25-15 to Auckland Storm at Colin Maiden Park in round 6 of the Farah Palmer Cup on Sunday.
In wet conditions, both teams tried to attack from their own half but failed to finish off their attacking phases. It took 25 minutes for the first points to be scored after Waikato was penalised for being offside in a kickable position. Ruahei Demant was successful with her penalty shot at goal to put the home team in front 3 nil.
With 11 minutes remaining in the first half, Waikato were able to score their first points of the day to take the lead, after Ana Marster cut through the Auckland defensive line and a couple of passes later the captain, Chyna Hohepa, went over to score a great team try. Ariana Bayler was unable to convert the try after it was charged down but Waikato led 8-3.
However, Bayler was able to extend Waikato’s advantage right on half time after she was pulled into the ruck, the referee awarded a penalty almost out in front of the posts and Bayler gave Waikato a 8-3 lead at the break.