By Campbell BurnesTaranaki 54 Wellington 31The Marty McKenzie show was on full display in the capital as Taranaki firmed as Premiership semifinalists with a dominant performance. At least wing Joe Hill ran with some dash, but their pack was demolished as Taranaki took the direct route. The visitors posted their highest score against the Lions, and a hat-trick to classy Blues-bound fullback Stephen Perofeta helped blow the score out. The midfield of Johnny Fa'auli and Seta Tamanivalu was aggressive without the ball and potent with it. Wellington are back at home on Saturday to Waikato in another crossover clash to round out their regular season, while Taranaki finish at home to Auckland on Thursday night.

Source: New Zealand Herald October 09, 2016 01:31 UTC