Counties Manukau retain Ranfurly Shield with tense win over Hawke’s Bay

Counties Manukau secured the Ranfurly Shield for the upcoming off-season after defeating Hawke's Bay 12-7 at Navigation Homes Stadium. The Steelers built a 12-0 halftime lead through tries from Adam Brash and Melani Matavao, alongside a conversion by AJ Alatimu. Despite failing to score in the final 53 minutes, the hosts held off a late comeback from the Magpies to lock up the Shield until next year.

Hawke's Bay cut the deficit around the 60-minute mark courtesy of a try from Darby Lancaster converted by Harry Godfrey. Although the Magpies pressured Counties during the final stages, a crucial defensive lineout stand sealed the win for the Steelers. Despite the victory, Counties missed the NPC playoffs, while Hawke's Bay advanced with a 6-4 record.