Round Up: Mitre 10 Cup Round 9
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Round 9 Stats leaders
On the individual points scoring tables Canterbury's Richie Mo'unga sits on top with 133 points while Otago's Fletcher Smith has 121 with Wellington's Jackson Garden-Bachop on 111 the only players to have passed 100.
North Harbour's Tevita Li's five-try haul against Taranaki on Sunday carried him to 11 tries in the competition, one more than Canterbury's Braydon Ennor.
Taranaki Vs Manawatu
Taranaki retained the Ranfurly Shield after a sublime performance at home to Manawatu. Some great attacking rugby after a cagey start by both teams, but it was the home side who scored on the 20 minute mark through Naholo before adding another 3 tries in 8 minutes to race into a 27-6 lead at the break.
The second half was more even as Manawatu added 3 tries playing some great rugby, but a late surge from Taranaki kept the away side at bay including a pphenomenal finish from Kylem O'Donnell to seal a 7 try win for the hosts, who will hold the Ranfurly Shield for the summer.
Wellington Vs Northland
A dominant display by Wellington as they ran in 4 second half tries to win the match 36-18, despite only leading by two points at half time. This result means that Northland could miss the semifinals completely despite heading into the match in 2nd place, while Wellington will host their semi-final having finished in top spot in the Championship.
Auckland Vs Canterbury
Canterbury hold on to secured a 27-32 win, despite a late Auckland surge. Canterbury went into an early lead after Braydon Ennor forced his way over the line. Vince Aso finished off a brilliant Auckland counter to tie the game up. Ben Nee Nee was then yellow carded for a cynical penalty and Caleb Makene went over in the corner soon afterwards. Jono Hickey converted to penalties to lead at half time. The lead exchanged hands a few times before Canterbury scored 13 unanswered points. TJ Faiane finished a brilliant team try with 5 minutes left on the clock as Auckland looked to form a late comeback but Canterbury were able to hold on to beat Auckland for the 48th time in 100 attempts (5 draws).
Bay of Plenty Vs Waikato
A great result for Bay of Plenty as they secure a home semifinal, while Waikato finish the season at the bottom of the Premiership and are relegated to the Championship for next season.
Otago Vs Southland
A really one-sided game as Otago scored 7 tries to beat Southland 43-19. Otago have secured a semi final spot while Southland finish their season without a single win.
Counties Manukau Vs Tasman Makos
An absolutely fantastic game Counties as they rallied to beat Tasman 52-30. The home side was down to 13 players with 15minutes to play. That was the turning point in the game as they were able to score 21 unanswered points with at least a man less than their opposition.
North Harbour Vs Taranaki
Tevita Li scored 5 tries to help Harbour Rugby take a commanding 62-33 win over Taranaki Rugby.
Hawke's Bay Vs Manawatu
After a disappointing season Magpies fans finally had something to cheer about as their side held on for a nail-biting 36-31 win over Manawatu at McLean Park.
The Semi-finals
