Fans flock to greet Northland after historic Ranfurly Shield win over Canterbury
Northland rugby team members were greeted by enthusiastic fans after winning the Ranfurly Shield for the first time since 1978. The victory over Canterbury has sparked significant local pride and community celebrations across the region.
Why it matters
The Ranfurly Shield is a culturally significant trophy in New Zealand, and this win represents a major historical milestone for the Northland team.
Forty-eight years of shattered dreams and heartache are over: for the first time since 1978, Northland are holders of the famous Ranfurly Shield, the Log o’ Wood, that legendary symbol of New Zealand rugby folklore.
And what a way to bring the shield north, with a compelling 36-12 victory over holders Canterbury at Te Kaha Stadium, a scoreline that did not flatter the dogged men from the north.
Taniwha captain Rivez Reihana knows what bringing home the Ranfurly Shield for the first time in so long means for Northland, its past representative players and future generations.
“It’s massive. It’s huge,” Reihana said shortly after stepping off the plane at Whangārei Airport with the famous Log o’ Wood in hand.
“Just taking all this in and seeing all these people and tamariki here. This is what we are all about as a team, inspiring the next generation and representing Northland.”
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