For Waikato It was even better than their gargutian struggle won three years ago 22-20 on a moody afternoon in Christchurch.
Waikato came out firing, setting the tempo early with their physicality, especially in the forward pack. Their dominance in the scrum and at the breakdown was clear, as they consistently applied pressure on Canterbury’s set-piece.
Waikato’s pack played with ruthless efficiency, laying the foundation for an intense opening period. When prop Veisana Maturiki- Fakalelu crashed over it was 10-0 in a flash.
Canterbury, renowned for their fitness and expansive style, refused to back down. As the game progressed, they began to open up Waikato’s abrasive defence with quick distribution.
In the 47th minute the visitors claimed a shock 22-17 lead when a crosskick by Terauoriwa Gapper was claimed by Riko Yoshida. The Japanese winger, perhaps the shortest player on the field, soared highest.
Waikato reverted to type to wrestle back the advantage. Former Black Fern Grace Houpapa-Barrett barging over in the 58th minute. Houpapa-Barrett has scored 11 tries in 2024.
Canterbury teased Waikato when the ball went to the edges but the hosts held their nerve. They were even denied a try when Viki Rose-Green was sandwiched between half a dozen defenders.
Canterbury has a 5-8 record in finals. Since 2017 Canterbury has won 57 out of 64 matches.
“Sorry about my ugly tears but I don't care. It means so much, it was not just about the team on the field, I'm just so proud," Waikato captain Chelsea Semple told Sky Sport.
"It took everything, we haven't felt that pressure that Canterbury put us under so there is no better competitor for us.”
Waikato: 27 (Kana Nepia, Veisana Maturikii- Fakalelu, Lela Ieremia, Grace Houpapa-Barrett, tries; Nepia 2 con, pen ) Canterbury: 25 (Emma Whinney, Laura Bayfield, Riko Yoshida tries; Abigail Paton 2 con, 2 pen)