Wellington Lions Claim NPC Title

The Wellington Lions triumphed in a thrilling 2024 National Provincial Championship (NPC) Final, securing the title with a hard-fought 23-20 win over Bay of Plenty in extra time. The tense match saw both teams battling under challenging conditions, ultimately separated by a clutch 93rd-minute penalty goal that sealed Wellington’s victory.

A Season Defined by Close Calls

This dramatic final marks the second time this season that Wellington and Bay of Plenty have faced off in a game decided by the slimmest of margins. Earlier in the season, Wellington edged out Bay of Plenty in another extra-time battle. Led by former All Black Julian Savea, the Lions demonstrated impressive teamwork and resilience, ultimately capturing the title for the sixth time in their history.

Intense Start as Lions Dominate Early

Wellington took control right from kickoff, setting the tone with aggressive possession play that kept Bay of Plenty pinned deep in their half. Within five minutes, Savea crossed the try line near the left sideline, with Jackson Garden-Bachop converting to give Wellington an early lead.

Despite a shaky start, Bay of Plenty began to find their footing. Key players like Leroy Carter and Kaleb Trask helped alleviate the initial pressure, allowing the team to regroup. After coming close to scoring in the 15th minute, Carter’s effort set up prop Aidan Ross for a try that leveled the score, setting the stage for a fiercely contested match.

A Nail-Biting First Half

The Lions regained the lead midway through the first half when Garden-Bachop converted a penalty goal. Wellington’s backline then showcased exceptional coordination, leading to a second try by Savea. Following a hard-hitting pass sequence from Tjay Clarke and Garden-Bachop, Savea charged through the defense, widening Wellington’s lead to 15-7 by halftime.

Second-Half Surge from Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty squad stormed into the second half with renewed energy. Trask narrowed the gap with two penalty goals, and then Emoni Narawa surged across the try line, propelling Bay of Plenty to a 20-15 lead following the successful conversion. With less than 12 minutes on the clock, Wellington found themselves chasing the game.

However, Lions captain Du’Plessis Kirifi rallied his team with a confidence-boosting huddle, reminding them of their strategy. This pep talk led to a critical play where Peter Umaga-Jensen threaded a perfect pass to winger Losilosivale Filipo, who cut through the defense for a game-tying try. Garden-Bachop’s conversion attempt missed, leaving the score locked at 20-20 with just minutes left.

Heart-Stopping Extra Time and Wellington’s Winning Moment

With the game deadlocked, the teams headed into extra time. Garden-Bachop missed a drop goal that could have sealed the win, but Wellington managed to reclaim possession, driving upfield with determination. Halfway through the extended period, neither side had managed to pull ahead. Then, in the 93rd minute, substitute Callum Harkin stepped up and delivered a decisive penalty goal, pushing Wellington to a 23-20 lead that they maintained until the final whistle.

A Well-Earned Victory

This victory ends a 48-year title drought for the Wellington Lions, who overcame immense pressure to claim the NPC championship in style. The win highlights not only their skill and teamwork but also their ability to perform under pressure, making this NPC Final one for the history books.