The Wellington Lions have claimed the NPC championship for 2024 after a thrilling 100-minute final, defeating Bay of Plenty 23-20 in extra time. Callum Harkin’s decisive penalty in the second period of extra time brought an end to a fiercely contested match and secured the title for the Lions.
The match saw Julian Savea, a standout performer on the wing, score two tries, demonstrating his experience and power throughout the game. Savea’s efforts, including his vintage style of play, proved crucial in leading Wellington to victory. Despite Wellington’s win, Bay of Plenty delivered a strong challenge, falling just short of capturing their first NPC title since 1976.
The match opened with Savea scoring in the left corner after a well-timed pass from Kyle Preston. Bay of Plenty almost equalized when winger Leroy Carter crossed the line, but a critical tackle dislodged the ball, preventing the score. Bay of Plenty eventually drew level through Aidan Ross, whose try was awarded after a review confirmed downward pressure on the ball.
Savea’s second try came after a slick passing sequence, allowing him to charge down the right wing and power through a defender. Wellington went into halftime with a 15-7 lead, though Bay of Plenty made their presence felt in the second half, adding six points through penalties kicked by Kaleb Trask.
Bay of Plenty took the lead when Emoni Narawa scored under the posts, putting the Steamers ahead for the first time. The Lions were under pressure, struggling to gain territory and possession until a turnover allowed them to break free. This shift led to a five-metre scrum, setting up Peter Umaga-Jensen to deliver a pass that sent Filipo through a gap, tying the match with five minutes left.
The Lions had opportunities to seal the win in regular time, but missed attempts from Garden-Bachop and a last-ditch effort from fullback TK Howden meant the scores remained tied at 20-20. As the final whistle of regular time sounded, the teams prepared for extra time.
Bay of Plenty controlled much of the first extra period, orchestrating a 27-phase attack, yet Wellington’s defence held firm. It wasn’t until the second period of extra time that Harkin’s penalty kick secured the title for the Lions.
Scorers:
- Wellington 23 (Savea 2, Filipo, tries; Garden-Bachop 1 con, 1 pen; Harkin 1 pen)
- Bay of Plenty 20 (Ross, Narawa, tries; Trask 2 cons, 2 pens)
The NPC final will be remembered as one of the most intense and competitive matches in recent memory, with Wellington emerging as champions and Bay of Plenty left to continue their pursuit of a title that has eluded them since 1976.