Tempest hits season opener
It was a wet and wild start to the Counties Manukau Rugby McNamara Cup, with a number of tight tussles over the weekend.
Counties Power Cup holders Pukekohe came from behind to snatch a 29-26 win over Karaka at Colin Lawrie Fields in Pukekohe.
Pukekohe coach, Viliame Setitaia said his team’s ill discipline cost them in the opening half as they trailed 14-10.
In the second half, Setitaia said Pukekohe’s set pieces started to come together and the team was able to gather momentum.
‘‘It could have gone either way, we were lucky to come through.’’
Pukekohe halfback Christie Gregor was a standout for the team, Setitaia said as a number of players were trialled at halfback during pre-season.
‘‘He controlled the game really well and he kicked really well.’’
Defending McNamra Cup champions Bombay kept Onewhero scoreless in a dominant 41-0 victory at Bombay.
Aaron Smith, Jordan Goldsmith, Mitchell Thackham, Sam Vaka and Haamiora Clarke all scored tries while Jordyn Walters slotted four conversions and a penalty.
Bombay coach Jeff Marr was pleased with his side’s first competition match of the year.
‘‘We had to work pretty hard. We had a dominant forward pack and we worked hard to get our points to be honest.’’
Patumahoe proved too strong for Papakura with a 27-8 win Domain.
Patumahoe coach Jeff Maka said his side was far from their best.
‘‘It was good. I’m happy. It was a bit messy but I will take the win.’’
Ardmore Marist were able to keep Manurewa at bay in the second half to secure a 33-19 win.
Ardmore Marist coach Saua Leaupepetele said he was pleased with the determi- at Patumahoe nation his side showed having spent much of the game without the ball.
‘‘We didn’t have the territory or the possession - it was just a big defensive effort from the boys.’’
Waiuku were able to stretch out a small half time lead to grab a 26-14 win over Te Kauwhata.
Playing at Te Kauwhata Domain, Waiuku scored four tries and in the process secured a bonus point win.