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Northland targeting NPC title after ending 47-year Shield wait
Sport Nation • September 2nd, 2026 7:00 am
Northland’s Ryan Martin and Rivez Reihana | Photo: Photosport
Northland successfully defended the Ranfurly Shield for the first time in 47 years in their Round Five win over Tasman.
The Taniwha’s 20-10 victory at Semenoff Stadium took them to 4-1 for the season, but head coach Ryan Martin is determined the Shield will not become their only focus.
“All our language from pre-season to day dot has been around winning this competition,” Martin said.
“We’re not hiding that fact. That’s why we’re here. We believe we’ve got the team and the style of play to do it, so that’s what we’re chasing weekly.”
Northland had to withstand a determined Tasman challenge in difficult conditions, with Martin praising his side’s ability to produce a gritty, Test match-style performance.
Rob Rush's expletive-ridden interview after Ranfurly Shield celebrations with Northland | Scotty & Izzy
The week had carried plenty of emotion, with the Shield taken around the region before a large home crowd gathered to watch its first defence.
Martin said the Taniwha were building the ability to adapt their style depending on the opposition and conditions.
“We’ve been building over the last couple of years the ability to play different styles, depending on what the opposition demand of us, but also the conditions,” he said.
The Shield success has provided an added boost, but Martin believes it will take care of itself if Northland stay focused on winning the competition.
“If we keep our mindset of winning the comp, then the Shield will take care of itself,” he said.
Listen to the full interview below:
