Buller’s Last-Minute Heroics Secure Bill Osborne Taonga in Ruatoria
In a match that will live long in the memory, Buller produced an outstanding performance to clinch the Bill Osborne Taonga, edging Ngati Porou East Coast 13-11 in the first round of the Bunnings Warehouse Heartland Championship. Andrew Wells’ injury-time penalty sealed a thrilling victory, leaving the Ruatoria crowd stunned as Buller celebrated their first-ever triumph in the prestigious challenge.
The first half was a gritty and hard-fought affair, with both teams unable to break through. Each side traded penalties, and the 3-3 scoreline at halftime reflected the intense defensive effort. Buller, asked to absorb a lot of pressure, stood firm thanks to a tireless display from flanker Joe Taylor, whose work across the field was nothing short of remarkable.
Opportunities were scarce for Buller on the attack during the opening 40 minutes, but when they did emerge, Louis Devery was a constant threat in the midfield, making significant inroads against the East Coast defense.
It was East Coast who broke the deadlock in the second half, with Te Rangi Fraser crossing on the left edge after relentless pressure on the Buller try line. Buller, however, refused to fold and continued to battle. They were eventually rewarded after 70 minutes when Sione Lonitenisi powered over the line, following a sustained period of pressure on East Coast’s defense. Buller’s forwards, including Anthony Ellis and Caleb Havili, were menacing with the ball in hand, with Lonitenisi finally breaking through to give Buller a 10-8 lead.
The final stages of the game were nail-biting. Buller, controlling possession and the clock, seemed poised to close out the match. But a turnover at halfway led to a dramatic breakaway by East Coast, resulting in a penalty right in front of the posts. The home side converted to snatch an 11-10 lead with just a minute left on the clock.
With time running out, Buller won the restart and kept their composure. After 20 exhausting phases, they earned a crucial penalty. Although the players were running on fumes, Wells coolly stepped up and slotted the 30-metre penalty from a central position, handing Buller the 13-11 victory and sparking jubilant scenes among the players and supporters.
Joe Taylor’s immense performance was key to Buller’s success, while Harris McRobbie impressed with his strong carries in the front row. Captain Anthony Ellis led by example, and Alan Paterson and Caleb Havili were formidable in the locking department. Wells orchestrated the game well from flyhalf, and Matt Soper shone on his first-class debut at halfback.
Buller’s first challenge for the Bill Osborne Taonga ended in triumph, an incredible result that the team will be immensely proud of. This victory will give them huge confidence as they move deeper into the Heartland Championship.