News

Bombay have made a winning start to life under new coach Mike Tuiloma as they claimed a season-opening 15-6 McNamara Cup win over Ardmore Marist at Bombay Domain on Saturday.

There wasn’t a lot between the two sides but Bombay led throughout the game and had enough to keep the visitors at bay.

They were strong defensively, which impressed new coach Tuiloma.

“I liked the defensive effort,” he told Counties Sports Hub. “Only letting Ardmore Marist resorting to the boot for points was great.

“David O’Connell was outstanding and definitely played out of his skin.”

Pukekohe got their campaign off to a winning start as they accounted for Papakura 20-8 in a hard-fought contest at Colin Lawrie Fields.

The home side had to work hard for their points as Papakura turned up with plenty of energy and heart.

“Wet weather footy,” said Pukekohe coach Michael Porter.

“I thought a few young boys stepped up well today – Leo led well up front and TK, in the back line, was outstanding today.

“Papakura are a good side and really made us work for it.”

Karaka reversed last year’s semi-final loss to beat Manurewa 20-14 in the Counties Power Game of the Week at Karaka Sports Complex.

“Tough game as expected against a physical side,” said Karaka coach Craig Hill.

“Our scrum laid a very good platform, which had them under a lot of pressure.

“I was a bit disappointed we let a few chances go begging but happy with the effort the boys show.

“Good to bag that one first up.”

In Bob Chandler Cup Premier Reserves action Pukekohe scored a big win over Papakura, finishing with a 74-19 score line.

Karaka had to work hard to overcome Manurewa 31-17 while Ardmore Marist defaulted to Bombay.

Patumahoe opened the Massey Cup U21 competition in style as they secured a 67-12 win over newcomers Ardmore Marist at Patumahoe.

Defending champions Karaka edged Manurewa 22-14 at Mountfort Park while Pukekohe accounted for Papakura 43-3.