Manawatu scores against Manawatu

It was confusing stuff when Manawatu scored four tries to beat Manawatu at Palmerston North yesterday.


Confused? You won't be when you realise that winger Tim Manawatu was playing for Counties-Manukau in the second division clash.


He marked his maiden starting appearance on the wing for his latest province by scoring four tries and showed dependable finishing qualities to help Counties-Manukau overcome a halftime deficit of 5-10.

Manawatu has previously played for Hawke's Bay, Buller and King Country. Counties halfback Kevin Farrell and first five-eighth Troy Nathan kicked intelligently when they had the wind at their backs.

Counties scored six tries in all, the others going to Nathan and lock Tarrice Chi Tar, many of which were created by turnovers. Their best player was probably openside flanker James Maher, who dominated the breakdown area.

The result means that Counties-Manukau now have a home final against Nelson Bays at Pukekohe on Saturday.

Division Two

Counties-Manukau 34
Manawatu 10

-NZPA