Waikato and East Coast squared up to each other during one of the most tense hakas we have seen in some time.
The two rivals clashed in Ruatoria yesterday, and clash they very nearly did before the game kicked off with the players going nose to nose surrounded by supporters.
Some observers have suggested that East Coast disrespected Waikato – yellow, black and red stripes – by infringing too close to their opponents, but it did not affect their performance as Waikato ran out convincing 65- 10 victors.
Have a look at the up close and personal action and keep an eye for a man on horseback casually taking in the action on the pitch. As you do.
