Hawkes Bay thrashed Auckland on the weekend as their 2009 Air New Zealand Cup campaigns got underway at Mclean Park in Napier.
Auckland got hammered 47-13 as they were outscored by five tries to one, showing a lack of experience and depth in their opening match of the tournament.
With the bonus point win, Hawkes Bay ended 35 years without success against Auckland, fully justifying the support of their committed fans.
The Magpies streaked off to a 13-0 lead in the firstly thanks to two Matt Berquist penalties and an excellent try from impressive youngster Zac Guildford.
Auckland came back with a converted try and two penalties from Daniel Bowden, levelling the scores before Karl Lowe crossed for Hawkes Bay to give them a 20-13 lead at halftime.
The Magpies took control in the second half and went further ahead with penalties from Berquist, and tries to Thomas Waldrom, Sona Taumalolo, and Jason Kupa to round off the one sided victory.
Auckland face Canterbury next weekend at Eden Park, in what should prove to be another huge challenge for them.
Time:
05:03
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