Magpies Soar into NPC Semi-Finals with Dominant Win Over Bulls

The Hawke’s Bay Magpies secured their place in the Bunnings Warehouse NPC semi-finals following a decisive 26-12 victory over the Taranaki Bulls in Napier on March 15, 2025. The match showcased the Magpies’ dominance, with a commanding performance that included four tries, leaving their opponents without a score in the first half.

The atmosphere at McLean Park was electric, with a supportive home crowd enjoying classic conditions, including temperatures above 20°C. Despite a gusty wind swirling through the stadium, the Magpies capitalized on their home advantage, delivering a performance that justified their status as favorites going into the match.

Facing a Taranaki team that had been seeking a fifth consecutive victory over the Magpies, the home side managed to turn the tide early on. The first 20 minutes saw the Magpies struggle to gain territory, yet this period ultimately laid the groundwork for their subsequent triumph. The Bulls, despite their efforts, found it challenging to breach the Magpies’ defense, and their attempts yielded little reward.

By the end of the match, the Magpies had achieved their eighth win in 11 matches this season, reinforcing their strong track record. Coach and players alike expressed satisfaction with the performance, noting that they had worked hard to execute their game plan effectively.

The Magpies’ victory not only advances them to the semi-finals but also marks the last home match of the season, with no further opportunities to host matches in the semi-finals or finals. This adds significance to their performance, as they look ahead to the next stage of the competition with momentum and confidence.

As the team prepares for the upcoming semi-final, fans and analysts alike are eager to see if the Magpies can maintain their form and continue their push for the championship title.