Manukura claim national touch title in tense final stuff.co.nz - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from stuff.co.nz Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
The second half was an intense battle, with both teams scoring early, and at one stage Manawatū led 4-2 with five minutes to play. Counties Manukau fought back to level the scores 4-all, so with the scores tied at the end of regulation time, the game proceeded to a drop off. Teams were reduced to four players and the game was restarted for another 2 minutes. During this time no-one could score, so each side was reduced to three players and the golden point rule instigated. Counties Manukau attacked hard first, nearly scoring on a sprint to the wing, however Manawatū’s Madison Hadfield made a try saving dive to make the touch.