Manurewa become the first ever holders of the Counties Sports Hub Shield after they beat Papakura 56-0 at South Park on Saturday.
The Shield was one of two trophies donated to Counties Manukau Rugby this week along with the AS Wilcox and Sons Cup.
The Counties Sports Hub Shield will be up for grabs whenever the holder plays a competition game against another Counties Manukau club.
The win was the third in succession (the first thanks to a default) for the Manurewa side, who top the Coleman Shield standings.
“Awesome to get the win; the score did not reflect how tough the Papakura side were,” said coach Bruce Kaino.
“They are a very young side with heart and that never say die attitude, led by an experienced leader in Stacey Brown.
“Our women had a slow start to the game but slowly started to find their feet late in the first half.
“I’m very happy with how our young talent coming through are just getting out there and having a go.
“Awesome to be the first holders of the shield – the challenge now is to defend it.
“Big work ons for us is to maintain pressure for 80 minutes and not get complacent and rest on a lead we get.
“The ladies know the competition only gets tougher in the weeks to come with North Shore up next, and Puke, Ponies and Riffles looking in fine form.
“Main focus for us is to keep improving each week and stay focused.”
Pukekohe’s match against College Rifles was not played due to illness in the Pukekohe camp. Their earlier season match will stand as the one that counts for competition points – College Rifles won the game 21-12.
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