Apparently there was a rugby game over in Hamilton on Saturday afternoon and the weather was very nice.   Let’s talk about Wellington instead. On Friday night, the Bay makes their Air New Zealand Cup debut at the Caketin. While we hope for a win, the Bay’s current form suggests that the avoidance of a heavy defeat may be a more realistic ambition.

In 2004, Wellington was vanquished at Bay Park in one of the most stirring defensive performances ever seen. Colin Bourke’s last minute goal line tackle on Tana Umaga is already an act of legend for Bay fans and the win made us believe that we could make it to the semi-finals. Tana’s post-match marathon autographing session that day is one of the reasons why it is difficult to dislike Wellington. 

Last season it was head in hands time as we conceded soft early tries and it looked like a thrashing was on the cards. Amazingly we stormed back to take the lead in the second half and naturally we did our best to point out the inadequacies of the home team to their fans. Of course we were then denied victory by an outrageous TMO decision. Were we bitter? You bet we were. In fact we still are and no doubt in 20 years time the bitterness will still be there.

The Caketin is an excellent place to watch a game of rugby. The stands are a long way back so the view is not great but it is great to walk to a game, exchange banter with rival fans and maybe stop along the way for refreshment. The return journey back into the city is also one to savour, especially following a Bay victory. If we do happen to sneak a victory on Friday night, you can be sure the celebrations will be long and loud.

Following on from last week, 5 more reasons for Bay fans to be cheerful this week.

Still unbeaten in the Air New Zealand Cup.
Wellington is a pleasant city to visit.
We led Waikato 10-3 but probably eased up to prevent injuries.
Big Aleki Lutui will make a difference when he is fit.