Tries: L Masaga
Pens:

Something a bit different for this match report, the opposition's view of the game. Report "borrowed" from the Counties Manukau website (check out the link at the bottom of this page).

Steelers edged by Ranfurly Shield holders in first outing 09 July 2007

The Counties Manukau Steelers had a useful hit out when they were beaten narrowly 18-10 by Ranfurly Shield holders North Harbour in a pre-season match at Pukekohe Stadium on Saturday.

Coach Kevin Putt was able to use his entire 26-strong squad during the game, including schoolboys Frank Halai (Wesley College) and Tim Nanai-Williams (Manurewa HS) who make their debuts for the Steelers.

The visitors led 7-3 at halftime in an even game where the Steelers, in their first game of the year, were not able to take full advantage of numerous attacking breaks against a more game-hardened Harbour outfit.

New Zealand Under-21 winger Lelia Masaga continued his try-scoring feast grabbing the only try for the Steelers after collecting a Troy Nathan attacking kick to score in the 10 minutes that he was on the field.

Counties Manukau have their second pre-season match against Wellington at Taupo’s Owen Delaney Park this Saturday with the final hit out before the Air New Zealand Cup against Northland at Pukekohe the following week.