Counties' "B" team went close to pulling off a major upset five days ago and now Tana Umaga has put the heat on his big guns.

Counties-Manukau rugby fans now have a worry-free 20 days in which to enjoy having the Ranfurly Shield.

Eighteen years ago, New Zealanders almost lost the Ranfurly Shield in its current format.

Counties Manukau fans turned out in force to get their taste of Ranfurly Shield fever - as the team eyes the first challenge to their new reign as holders.

Waiuku's Kentish Hotel sounded like the spot to be last night when Counties Manukau won the Ranfurly Shield for the first time in 25 attempts.

East Coast blindside flanker Brent Ingram yesterday became the first Coast player to score a try in a Ranfurly Shield challenge against Waikato at Ruatoria.

Taranaki wrestled the Ranfurly Shield away from Southland in a double dose of disappointment for the Stags.

Colin Slade will take his first steps towards a place in the World Cup squad this weekend.

Rugby Southland say the "extremely challenging" rugby environment is behind the union's loss of almost half a million dollars.

Canterbury got their latest Ranfurly Shield reign off to a winning start, beating Counties Manukau 39-21.

24 times they've tried and 24 times they've failed. But Counties Manukau are still confident they can win the Ranfurly Shield tomorrow.

Canterbury has been bolstered by the return of All Blacks Owen Franks and Brad Thorn for their first Ranfurly Shield defence.

It was bitter-sweet as Southlanders farewelled the Ranfurly Shield to Canterbury last night.

Tim Shadbolt retained the mayoralty but another reign ended in Invercargill tonight.

The All Black selectors seem hell-bent on taking as many World Cup prospects as they can to Europe - but who is the best choice to back-up number seven ?

Southland's Ranfurly Shield run has been a 'beacon of hope' for a battered province. Will the dream run end tonight?