Auckland too strong for Southland
August 10, 2001

Auckland scored a comfortable 29-7 victory over Southland in their opening NPC clash at Eden Park.

In a game blighted by poor weather Southland took the lead spectularly through Kuka Asolupe, who intercepted on his own 22 before running the length of the field to touch down. Earl Va'a made the easy conversion.

Auckland took time to find their rhythm but eventually their forwardss created enough holes for Keven Mealamu to exploit and go over for the try which Carlos Spencer converted.

The quality of rugby on display failed to improve as the game went on and a Spencer penalty just before the break was enough to separate the sides at half-time.

Auckland began the second half strongly with a try from Iliesa Tanivula which Spencer converted and shortly after followed a try from captain Xavier Rush after a sweeping move. Spencer once again converted.

The game was won for Auckland later in the half with another try from replacement Justin Wilson, Spencer failed to convert this time but maximum points were already in the bag.

Auckland:Tries : Mealamu, Tanivula, Rush, Wilson. Conversions : Spencer (3) Penalty : Spencer

Southland:Try : Asolupe Conversion : Va'a

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