Air New Zealand Cup semifinals

Canterbury came back in fashion from their Ranfurly Shield defeat against a willing Hawke's Bay side who made a few too many errors. If only two weeks ago the Magpies were denied a chance to draw the game by the lack of a TMO in the ruling of the final action, on Friday they had none. Canterbury played a semifinal with the aim to host the final, and it showed.

Isaac Ross was impressive, just like Stephen Brett was. George Whitelock drew his series against Lowe after a clear sweep by the black and white seven two weeks ago. The whole team stepped up and Rob Penney must surely feel confident.

The most entertaining game, both before and during the game was the one played in Wellington. The Stags must call themselves unlucky that Wellington rediscovered the magic in time for the semifinal. The second half of that game is a must-see. Running rugby, going from coast to coast and tons of quality in both sides. I could give you a few names who were worth to see playing: Scott Cowan, Jason Kawau, Hosea Gear, Victor Vito, David Smith, Josh Bekhuis...

A really exciting game in which the better team won. Wellington Lions may well be this year ready to secure the title that they just let slip last year.

It was a try!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sona Taumalolo scored a try, right during injury time, when his team was 20-27 down that was disallowed in a wrong call by international referee Chris Pollock.

Hawke's Bay played well and deserved more in a high-quality game against the best side in New Zealand (a side with 10 All Blacks, nothing less).

Something's going on in the Bay, and not even the wrong calls of referees will stop it. Zac Guilford, Israel Dagg and Thomas Waldrom, they all deserve a close look by Graham Henry.