Wellington clinched their sixth National Provincial Championship title with a 23-20 extra-time victory over Bay of Plenty.
Replacement kicker Callum Harkin was the unlikely hero, securing the win with a crucial penalty in the second half of extra time.
The game was packed with drama from the start. Former All Blacks star Julian Savea scored two early tries for Wellington, helping them lead 15-7 at halftime. But Bay of Plenty fought back hard, with Kaleb Trask’s penalties and Emoni Narawa’s try keeping the match tied 20-20 by the end of regular time.
Wellington had opportunities to seal the win earlier, but first-five Jackson Garden-Bachop, who was playing his 100th game for the team, missed key chances. The match remained locked after the first extra-time period, forcing the Lions to take Garden-Bachop off for Harkin.
Harkin stepped up when it mattered most, scoring from a 40-meter penalty to put Wellington ahead 23-20. Bay of Plenty tried to respond, pushing hard near the try line, but Wellington’s defense held firm. As the clock ran down, the Lions forced a turnover, sealing the win and sparking celebrations.
Wellington captain Du’Plessis Kirifi praised his team’s grit, saying, “That’s what we train for—moments like this. I’m just so proud of the boys.”
