Counties Manukau retain Ranfurly Shield with win over Hawke’s Bay

Counties Manukau successfully defended the Ranfurly Shield with a 12-7 victory against Hawke’s Bay at Navigation Homes Stadium in Pukekohe on Saturday evening. The win ensures the Log o' Wood remains in south Auckland for the summer. This marks the second time the shield has spent the summer with Counties, following their 2013 win.

The Steelers led 12-0 at halftime following tries from Adam Brash in the 11th minute and Melani Matavao in the 27th minute. AJ Alatimu added a conversion for Counties Manukau. Hawke’s Bay responded in the 61st minute when Darby Lancaster scored after a dummy pass from Folau Fakatava. Harry Godfrey converted the try to bring the score to 12-7.

The match was played in wet and greasy conditions with pelting rain. Hawke’s Bay struggled with handling errors, committing 16 turnovers compared to six by Counties Manukau. A pivotal moment occurred in the final moments when Veikoso Poloniati secured a defensive lineout steal to protect the lead.

Counties Manukau captain Jimmy Tupou, who was forced off the field in the 52nd or 53rd minute due to injury, praised the team's resilience. “I’m pretty speechless,” Tupou told Sky Sport. “I don’t think we could have won that game any better way,” he added.

Where reports differ

• Reports differ on the exact minute captain Jimmy Tupou left the field, citing either the 52nd or 53rd minute.
• One report states the Lancaster try came in the 60th minute, while others state the 61st minute.

Compiled from reports by NZ Herald, Stuff, 1News and The Post.