Rugby: Papakura win ensures top spot

Papakura moved to the top of the Counties Manukau rugby competition with a 15-8 win over Waiuku.

For 65 minutes Waiuku dominated and led 8-0. But the Papakura forwards dug deep, with props Nathan Te Puni and Alan McLean providing the power and No 8 Dion Kingi the charges.

A forward drive off the back of the lineout led to Alan McLean scoring in the last phase of the game. Alipate Tubu converted to seal victory.

Waiuku can count themselves a little unlucky to lose in the last play of the match, as they did the week before.

Pukekohe dominated Ardmore Marist in the first half to lead 25-5, with the tight five in control.

Lock Kelvin Potter had his best game of the season and was rewarded with a well-worked try.

Ardmore Marist woke up in the second half to score three tries, but a late Joeli Vidiri try sealed Pukekohe's victory, 30-17.

Bombay had Manurewa in all sorts of bother with some excellent counter-attacking by Keith Pryor and Rikki Horlock, but a late penalty and a converted Mark Todd try saw Manurewa sneak home 23-13 and remain an outside chance for the semifinals.

Onewhero secured their fourth win of the season with a 48-0 victory over Patumahoe.