Returning All Blacks make the difference

Image by Getty Images via Daylife

Each side had three All Blacks returning to the Air New Zealand Cup but there was only one team it all game.

Canterbury played Wellington for the Ranfurly Shield on Saturday and it was a one sided affair. Canterbury dominated in every aspect of the game with the help of Dan Carter, Richie McCaw and Brad Thorn. Canterbury won 36 points to 14.

Wellington did not have an answer to the strength of a determined Canterbury onslaught to retain the shield. Wellington have struggled throughout the Air New Zealand Cup and Saturday was no exception. It would have been nice to see a closer contest but it was the class of Canterbury that shone through.

So well done Canterbury. Maybe next time for Wellington.