2 Oct 2013

Counties-Manukau seemingly concede match to Canterbury

6:24 pm on 2 October 2013

The Counties-Manukau coach Tana Umaga has seemingly all but conceded his side's match against Canterbury on Sunday by resting the bulk of his first team lineup.

He's named just two players, halfback Kane Hancy and fullback Toni Pulurom, from last week's narrow one point win over Bay of Plenty, in the starting lineup for this weekend's match in Christchurch.

The Steelers who are in fourth place are already guaranteed a place in the permiership semi finals regardless of the results in their final two games of the regular season.

But no doubt also on Umaga's mind is Counties final Ranfurly Shield defence of the season, against Southland on Friday week.