UMNO New Zealand Rugby Cup
The UMNO New Zealand Rugby Cup, which was successfully held in Palmerston North on 8th July 2009, was the second inter-club UMNO club rugby tournament since its introduction last year. UMNO Clubs that sent teams to participate were Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch. The venue of this tournament was at Massey University Rugby field, Palmerston North.
Although it was not raining, the day was very cold as not only was the temperature single digit, the southerly wind added to the icy cold air that spectators and players alike experienced. However this did not seem to affect the players much as most of them were here to play and win. The game started around 9am, with the opener against Wellington and Auckland. Cold temperatures did not seem to hamper the players as they fought ferociously to win the game. Rucks, mauls, lineouts, and scrums were heavily contested between all teams, with each player determined to secure the ball, be it attacking or defending. Playing the basics and fundamentals properly was key to winning, as cold hands and strong winds made it hard to play.
The spectators, braving the cold and icy winds, went out to watch and support the teams that day. Encik Adi Affendi, from the Malaysian High Commission, attended and watched the final round between Wellington and Auckland. Without any doubt, Wellington were champions of the UMNO NZ Rugby 10’s Tournament and received the Dato’ Seri Wira Ali Rustam trophy. The tournament ended roughly around 12:30pm. A special thanks to UMNO Club Auckland for organizing the Rugby 10’s tournament this year, and also thanks to MUMSA for allowing us to play on thier University field. Also a special thanks to Encik Adi from High Commission of Malaysia, and spectators who attended the games. Hopefully the players have put on a good show for the spectators that day. Congratulations to the winners, and all that participated and spectated. Look forward to seeing a huge turnout for next year’s UMNO Rugby 10’s Tournament.