Two top rugby clubs in Cambridge, Hautapu and Hamilton Marist, are set to face off in the grand final of the Premier Club Rugby Competition this Saturday. The match will take place at Cambridge’s Memorial Park, where the victors will lift the prestigious Waikato Draught Breweries Shield. This highly anticipated showdown will determine the champion of the 2023 season.
Both teams showcased their strength in the semi-finals, dealing with challenging weather conditions to secure their spots in the final. Hautapu had the advantage of playing on their home ground, defeating Hamilton Old Boys 33-20. On the other side, Hamilton Marist dominated Te Awamutu Sports with a convincing 43-19 victory that required a bus trip to the opponent’s territory.
The two sides have had a close battle throughout the season, with no clear winner emerging. Although Hamilton Marist has not lost to Hautapu this year, their victories were by narrow margins. In May, Marist triumphed with a hard-fought 25-22 win in Cambridge. A fortnight ago, they continued their success with a 25-21 victory on their home turf. However, Hautapu is driven to prove themselves and secure their first significant victory against Hamilton Marist in 2023.
Both teams will rely on their talented first-five eights to lead them on the field. Kaea Hongara will guide Hautapu, while Wharenui Hawera will take charge for Hamilton Marist. In the midfield, Jason Thomasen of Hautapu will face off against the experienced Dylan Bower, who will be celebrating his 100th game for Marist. Up front, Hautapu’s powerhouse Hamilton Burr will confront the formidable Sam Pou, the second rower for Hamilton Marist.
The grand final will be officiated by premier referee Ben Woolerton, who will be overseeing his first Breweries Shield Premiership Final and celebrating his 50th Premier match. Assisting him on the touchline will be Ben Brownlie and Josh Bull, a special occasion for the match officials’ team.
For fans unable to attend the game, Waikato Rugby will be live-streaming the fixture on their Facebook page. The coverage will begin at 2:30 PM on Saturday, with commentary provided by Graeme Mintie Mead and David Fox.
All in all, the stage is set for an exhilarating clash between Hautapu and Hamilton Marist in the final. With both teams displaying strength and determination, it is bound to be a fiercely contested match. Rugby fans and followers eagerly await the outcome as the rivals vie for the coveted Waikato Draught Breweries Shield.
