Ranfurly Shield Top Performers

The Ranfurly Shield will stay with Taranaki after a 5 try and 20 point thumping of Manawatu. The Shield holders put in a great performance after their opening weekend loss as they hunt for the Mitre 10 Cup Trophy.

Here are todays top Performers

Rob Thompson - Manawatu:

The new Turbo's man and Highlanders star put together another great game as he caused countless troubles for the Naki defensive pair of Walden and Tamanivalu. He scored a try on the day and is the only Turbo to make the list

Seta Tamanivalu - Taranaki:

Tryless on the day but a beast on attack and he carved the Manawatu defence apart with a number of great lines and fends, especially from open play. A huge factor in their Shield defence and their 5 tries today.

Angus Ta'avao - Taranaki:

A scrum beast and the Turbo's scrum was up ended a few times. He had some great carries in open play and worked tirelesly for the 73 minutes he played.

Ricky Riccitelli - Taranaki:

The Hurricanes 1st choice is a major asset for any side he turns out for. A solid scrummager and accurate line out thrower the hooker provides much needed speed and skill in open play and he linked well with both his forwards and backs as the Manawatu defence tired. A solid 65 minutes from the SA born hooker.

Taranaki will defend the Ranfurly Shield again on September 9 when Waikato make their way to Yarrow Stadium - Match Details

Match Highlights: