News

The McNamara Cup’s two leading sides have progressed to the competition final after two enthralling semi-finals over the weekend.

Karaka will chase a perfect season after beating Bombay 27-12 at Karaka Sports Complex in a game in which they had to come from behind to win, while Patumahoe overcame a gallant effort from Pukekohe to secure a 25-22 win at Patumahoe Domain.

Brad Healy’s side raced out of the blocks and grabbed an early advantage on the back of a couple of early tries.

But Pukekohe fought back to draw to within three in the final 10 minutes of the game.

“A great game played in good spirits between two family clubs,” Healy told Counties Sports Hub.

“I’m proud of the boys’ efforts. Pukekohe threw a lot at us in the last quarter, but the lads were able to hold them out.”

Karaka were forced to chase Bombay after the visitors scored an early try. But Craig Hill’s side, who have won all 12 round robin games this season, were not daunted and they worked their way back to take control of the game in the second half.

“Very tight first half going toe to toe. We managed to win a couple of penalties early in the second half that Kali [Hala] kicked.

“Good tries to Rodney [Tongotea] and Taeao [Pomale-Time] that got us up.

“Proud of the boys. Bombay should be pleased with the way they finished the season.”

Karaka will chase a Premier and Premier Development double after the top qualifiers won through their semi-final against Manurewa 39-25.

They will face Papakura in the competition final, after they prevailed 20-14 against Pukekohe at Colin Lawrie Fields.

Waiuku were forced to come from behind to beat defending champions Drury 24-20 in Sid Marshall Shield round robin play.

Te Kauwhata fought back from a double digit deficit to beat Te Kohanga 36-21 and keep their semi-final ambitions alive.

Weymouth continued their dominant season with a 27-17 win on the road at Maramarua.

Manurewa comfortably beat Tuakau 39-14, while Onewhero were too good for Puni 45-14.

Beachlands Maraetai picked up a key 29-22 win at home against Pukekohe in U85kg action.

Patumahoe thumped Onewhero 40-3 while Karaka eased to a 52-3 win over Drury.