Rugby: Taranaki hold on to beat Manawatu

NZ Sports Wire 

Photo by: John Velvin

Manawatu almost stunned Taranaki at Yarrows Stadium on Sunday, falling 33-31 to extend their winless streak in New Plymouth to 38 years.

The Turbos never led since late in the first half but twice pulled within two points when Taranaki appeared to have the win wrapped up.

Trailing in the shadows of halftime, Bulls captain Kaylum Boshier scored deep into injury-time to snatch the lead. Flanker Jayden Sa crossed for his second and fullback Obey Samate scored as Taranaki went up 28-12 after 50 minutes.

However, a pair of converted tries from Ataata Moeakiola and Elyjah Crosswell closed the gap to two, before Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens restored a seven-point lead. Sam Coles scored in the 71st minute but Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula missed a potential game-tying conversion.

Taranaki's final match could be a Ranfurly Shield challenge against Tasman on Sunday (kick-off 2.05pm), while Manawatu host Counties Manukau on Saturday (kick-off 2.05pm).

Taranaki 33 (Jayden Sa 2, Kaylum Boshier, Obey Samate, Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens tries; Josh Jacomb 4 con) Manawatu 31 (Reece MacDonald, Ataata Moeakiola 2, Elyjah Crosswell, Sam Coles tries; Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula 3 con). HT: 14-12