Hawke’s Bay Magpies Advance to NPC Semi-Finals with Dominant Win

The Hawke’s Bay Magpies secured their place in the semi-finals of the Bunnings Warehouse NPC with a commanding 26-12 victory over the Taranaki Bulls in Napier. This decisive win featured four tries without reply, demonstrating the Magpies’ dominance on home turf. The match took place amid a vibrant atmosphere, fuelled by enthusiastic local supporters and pleasant weather conditions, with temperatures exceeding 20°C despite a gusty wind.

From the outset, the Magpies faced challenges, spending the first 20 minutes largely confined to their own half. This initial struggle, however, set the stage for a powerful turnaround. The Bulls, aiming for a fifth consecutive victory against the Magpies, found their efforts thwarted as the home team adapted and outmaneuvered them throughout the match. The victory not only justified the Magpies’ position as tournament favourites but also marked their eighth win in eleven matches during the 2025 season.

Performance Highlights and Future Prospects

The Magpies showcased their tactical prowess, capitalizing on key moments to secure their triumph. The team’s ability to recover from an initial defensive phase allowed them to build momentum, ultimately overwhelming the Bulls’ defenses. With this win, the Magpies now look ahead to the semi-finals, having solidified their ranking and performance throughout the season.

With no further home matches slated for the year, this victory at McLean Park will resonate strongly with both players and fans alike. The Magpies have demonstrated resilience and strategic gameplay, setting expectations high as they prepare to face their next opponent in the knockout stages of the competition.

As the semi-finals approach, the Hawke’s Bay Magpies will aim to maintain their momentum and capitalize on the lessons learned during the season. The team’s performance against Taranaki serves as a reminder of their capabilities and potential as they pursue the ultimate goal in this year’s NPC tournament.