National club rugby results: March 11
Counties Manukau
(McNamara Cup, round one)
Ardmore-Marist 33 Manurewa 19
Patumahoe 27 Papakura 8
Pukekohe 29 Karaka 26
Bombay 41 Onewhero 0
Waiuku 26 Te Kauwhata 14
Pukekohe have edged Karaka 29-26 in a tight opening round marquee clash in the McNamara Cup.
Waka Setitaia's side, in reasonable conditions at the Colin Lawrie Fields, considering the weather bomb, finished well after conceding a 14-10 halftime deficit to a bigger and more experienced pack.
The turning point was a penalty goal attempt by Pukekohe first five Jamie King which hit the upright. Following up was wing Matthew Vava, who scored the try. King's nine points were key, as were tries to Steelers hooker Gafatasi Sua, wing Peni Buakula and halfback Christie Gregor. Lock Cameron Skelton added his ballast to the Pukekohe scrum, which had a fierce battle with Karaka. While Pukekohe took most of their opportunities with a young side in which several were making their premier debuts, Setitaia admits the clash could easily have gone either way.
Karaka halfback Desma Liaina scored 14 points, including a try, while the seasoned loose forward Jamie Gilbert-Clark was also influential for the visitors.
