Grassroots rugby: Counties Manukau

Weymouth continued their strong showing in the premier division and were unlucky not to pick up their first win after leading Ardmore Marist 7-6 at the break before eventually losing 21-7.

After three games in the second round, promoted Weymouth are proving they have the ability to foot it with the top teams.

In a spoiling and messy encounter, Weymouth dug deep in the first half and threw everything at the Ardmore Marist defence.

But superior attacking capability and the ability to play a full 80 minutes helped secure Ardmore Marist the win, scoring two well-worked tries in the second spell.

Ardmore Marist lock Geoff Webster proved very effective at the lineouts and had a strong game around the field. Prop Andrew Tiitii stood out in the scrum and created problems for the Weymouth pack and was assisted well in the loose play by blindside flanker Jamie McGill.

Pukekohe remain at the top of the points table after defeating Bombay 31-17.

Pukekohe came out firing in the first 30 minutes and scored three well-worked tries.

In the second spell, Bombay spent most of the time in the Pukekohe 22 and were rewarded with two late tries.

Pukekohe's Farrell brothers, hooker David and halfback Kevin, both caught the eye with their extremely high workrate and ability to create opportunities.

Manurewa created the upset of the round by beating first-round winners Waiuku 21-7.

Manurewa played with more dedication and commitment as they were made to work hard for their win. Peter Epati continued his strong return from injury, proving rock solid in the midfield for Manurewa.

Karaka worked hard in their local derby against Papakura and deserved the 17-6 win. Young loose forward Kevin Busby and Welshman John Bowd led the way for the Karaka victory.