U85 National Cup Heats Up with Quarter Finals locked in

After a nail-biting extra-time clash between Poneke and Silverdale, the U85 National Cup quarter finals are officially locked in—and the matchups promise fireworks. With all teams stacked full of talent and promise, four thrilling fixtures now stand between eight teams and national glory.

Quarter Final 1: University Squids v Pakuranga Panthers

Auckland’s fierce U85 rivalry reignites as the Squids face reigning champions Pakuranga. The Squids stunned the Panthers in the Auckland semis by a single point, flipping the script on their 2025 head-to-head record. With both squads stacked with Auckland rep talent, expect a tactical arm-wrestle and explosive counterplay. Can the Squids repeat the upset, or will Pakuranga’s championship pedigree prevail?
When:13 September
Where: Colin Maiden Park #10

Quarter Final 2: Avalon Wolves v High School Old Boys (HSOB) Light Bears

Southern grit meets Central heart. Christchurch’s HSOB—finalists in last year’s title defence—are back with unfinished business. But Avalon, one of the last Central teams standing, have found their stride in the National Cup and won’t back down on home turf. With HSOB’s composite strength and Avalon’s resurgence, this clash could go down to the wire.
When: 6 September 
Where: Fraser Park #1

Quarter Final 3: Waihora Longhorns v University Slugs

The Slugs have dominated all season, dropping just one game and claiming the Auckland U85s crown. But Waihora, a composite club team on a hot streak, are riding high into their first-ever quarter final. With home advantage, momentum, and all-important underdog status, Waihora will be looking to shock everyone and rewrite the script.
When: 13 September
Where: Rhodes Park, Tai Tapu #1

Quarter Final 4: Poneke Wanderers v New Plymouth Old Boys (NPOB) Half Pints

Two composite powerhouses collide. NPOB return to the quarter finals for the first time since 2023, while Poneke are hungry to avenge last year’s one-point heartbreak against Pakuranga. Both teams battled through tough Round 3 opposition and now face off in this high-stakes encounter.
When: 13 September
Where: Kilbirnie Park/Evans Bay Park