Ardmore Marist held off Pukekohe 37-35 in an epic McNamara Cup game at Colin Lawrie Fields on Saturday in a battle of the two leading sides.
The game went back and forth each way throughout the contest, with Suliasi Taufalele’s men coming out on top when the final whistle blew.
“It was a typical top-of-the-table clash and the scores reflected how close it was,” Taufelele told Counties Sports Hub.
“Even though it was a high scoring game, it was a physical game.”
Manurewa stormed back to beat Bombay 31-25 at Mountfort Park after trailing for long periods.
It means Kaino Kaino’s side stays right in the hunt for a semi-final berth.
“Bombay started very well and they created their opportunities in the right areas of the field and converted them into points,” Kaino said.
“They definitely put us under pressure and played well in the first half.
“Credit to our men for staying in the fight, building pressure on attack through good phases and playing in the right end of the field to get us over the line.
“Proud of our efforts.”
Reigning champions Karaka hammered Weymouth 113-3 at Karaka Sports Complex to maintain third spot on the table.
“Our boys put some good stuff together and kept putting the foot down, which was good to see,” said Karaka coach Craig Hill.
“Once again, Weymouth’s credit, their discipline was top notch and they kept trying.
“They spent a fair period on attack at the end of the second half.”
Patumahoe kept hold of fourth spot with a 63-17 win over Papakura at Massey Park.
“We certainly weren’t ourselves today,” coach Greg Stanford said.
“A few different cattle but great to get a look at some guys and give other guys a break.
“Papakura have certainly improved and it is clear Mike [coach Mike Tuiloma] is doing a great job with his group.”
In Bob Chandler Cup Premier 2 results, Karaka cruised to a 59-5 win over Waiuku, Pukekohe beat Ardmore Marist 43-12, Bombay edged Manurewa 32-24 while Patumahoe accounted for Papakura 74-9.
Pukekohe pipped Te Kohanga 31-29 at Te Kohanga in Sid Marshall Shield play.
Elsewhere, Manurewa upset Drury 36-18, Onewhero blanked Puni 78-0, Maramarua stormed to a 55-24 win away to Karaka while Te Kauwhata smoked Tuakau 71-0.
Pukekohe continued their strong Massey Cup U21 form with a 31-21 win over Karaka at Karaka.
Ardmore Marist defeated RuaNorth 58-21 while Patumahoe beat Manurewa 38-19.
The Magic Round U85s concept at Colin Lawrie Fields in Pukekohe was an overwhelming success over the weekend.
Beachlands Maraetai held off Fraser Tech 29-24, Karaka took care of Patumahoe 36-12 while Pukekohe blanked Bombay 38-0.
Waiuku were too strong for Hamilton Marist, claiming a 31-17 victory while Morrinsville beat Drury 41-0.
Manurewa beat Silverdale 40-17 in Women’s Premier 1 action at Mountfort Park while Papakura edged Waitemata 20-19 in Women’s Premier 2 play.
Patumahoe were too strong for Eden 73-15.
