Rugby: Papakura go clear in try-record weekend

Papakura got off to a dream start against Manurewa but had to withstand a fightback before winning 20-17 in Counties-Manukau rugby.

Papakura's 20-5 lead at the break, with tries to Peter Carpenter, Barney Devery and Dion Kingi, gave the impression it was going to be a one-sided match.

But Manurewa rallied late in the second half, with tries to Selesi Moimoi and Opeta Lafotasi, only to come up three points short.

Papakura have now won five in a row to go clear at the top of the table.

In what is believed to be a competition record, flanker Simon McKearney scored six tries in Pukekohe's 50-6 win over Patumahoe.

A return to form for Pukekohe have them only three points adrift of the top four.

Bombay and Ardmore-Marist clashed in the most physical match of the season.

Ardmore-Marist had slightly more control and Dwayne Grace kicked the goals that mattered in their 17-10 win.

No 8 Pompei Lambert was Bombay's best in a team who now have six bonus points from six matches.

Waiuku had to battle hard for their 16-9 win over Onewhero. Waiuku prop Dave Stewart was a tower of strength up front, while centre Andrew Thompson provided touches of class out wide.

Hooker Winiata Taupo was the standout performer for Onewhero.