Northland hang on to beat the Steelers

Rene Ranger was one of the standout players for Northland in its 24-15 win over Counties Manukau in Pukekohe today. Photo / Michael Cunningham

Northland screwed the nut tighter and ramped up the pressure in the last quarter to beat Counties Manukau 24-15 in Pukekohe this afternoon.

Down 12-3 at half time, the Taniwha turned on the heat after the break with tries to Temo Mayanavanua and Pisi Leilua in heavy underfoot conditions.

Rene Ranger, Kara Pryor, and Josh Goodhue in particular were instrumental both in attack and defence and led the resurgency after the breather.

Northland take on Taranaki at Semenoff Stadium in Whangārei on Saturday.