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The injury-hit Counties Manukau Steelers have recorded their first win of the Bunnings Warehouse NPC season after a tight 22-19 win over North Harbour at Navigation Homes Stadium on Thursday.
Reon Graham’s side had to come from behind after trailing at half-time, but his side were able to rally to take the lead late and then hold on during the final minutes.
Tevita Ofa, Leo Ngatai-Tafau, and Gibson Popoali’i scored tries for the Steelers, while Popoali’i added two conversions and a penalty.
“Very happy we got the result,” Graham said.
“Not the best spectacle, but it’s good to win ugly sometimes.
“Some of our defensive efforts were awesome to watch, and the boys got a lot of confidence out of that. Debutants all played well, our skipper once again led from the front, and Gibson, in his blazer game, was the deserved man of the match.
“But I can’t fault anyone’s efforts – everyone stood up.”
The Steelers next face Ranfurly Shield holders Southland in Invercargaill next Sunday – the Stags will defend the Shield against Canterbury this weekend – if they are successful, the Steelers will get the next challenge.
