News

The top four sides in the 2024 McNamara Cup season head into this weekend’s semi-finals knowing their respective seasons will come down to 80 minutes of play.

Top ranked Karaka, who have won all 12 games during round robin play, will host a fast-finishing Bombay side at Karaka Sports Complex.

While Craig Hill’s side will start as clear favourites given the season they have put together so far, he knows that Bombay have hit form when it counts and have a track record of producing their best in knockout games.

“Bombay are on the improve, we are expecting one hell of a game,” Hill told Counties Sports Hub.

“There wasn’t a lot in it the last time we met and their results against the other semi-finalists have been close.

“Finals footy is different to round robin, what’s happened previously counts for nothing – it is all on the day.

“Our boys have had a very good season but will need to step it up this weekend otherwise the season is over.”

Second ranked Patumahoe hosts third-placed Pukekohe in what should be an epic semi-final between the two rival neighbours.

Little separated the two sides during the round robin match-ups and Patumahoe coach Brad Healy is hoping his side finds their best form in the knockout stage.

In Bob Chandler Cup Premier Development games, Karaka hosts Manurewa in one semi-final while Pukekohe is at home against Papakura in the other.

Defending champions Drury will tackle second placed Waiuku in the Sid Marshall Shield in a game between two semi-final contenders.

Maramarua would dearly love to beat top ranked Weymouth as they keep their playoff hopes in focus at home, while Te Kauwhata will need to be Te Kohanga on the road to keep their playoff chances alive.

Onewhero hosts Puni while Manurewa travels to Tuakau.

In U85kg play, Beachlands Maraetai hosts Pukekohe, Drury travels to Karaka while Patumahoe hosts Onewhero.