ITM Cup: Harbour score win over Manawatu

The upsets keep coming in the ITM Cup.

Despite coming in to the game without a win this season, North Harbour toppled the Championship-leading Manawatu 24-13 at a sodden QBE Stadium in Albany tonight.
It wasn't pretty but the home side were effective enough and tries to Luke Devcich and Pita Ahki plus the boot of pivot Daniel Halangahu provided the points.

Manawatu have been one of the surprise packages in the competition this year and despite not having many Super Rugby regulars, they've proven to be a dangerous side.
Jason O'Halloran's Turbos own victories over Premiership outfits Counties Manukau and Wellington, which has put them in to playoff contention.

Manawatu's defence has proven tricky to breakdown, while they're often on the wrong side of the territory statistic but have remained competitive, showing a strong ability to feed off scraps.

Harbour got on the board first tonight and were able to play from in front throughout the game; although they never enjoyed a large lead they were able to protect their advantage.
The rain pelted down during the second spell, which didn't help the spectacle, while Harbour's spoiling tactics at the breakdown didn't allow Manawatu to produce quick ball for their backs.

Manawatu love to throw the ball around but the conditions didn't invite such play as they came close to scoring a much-needed try in the second half but they were repelled by a desperate Harbour side.

Halangahu was useful for Harbour and directed play astutely in the wet, while they were well-served by a passionate front-row.

You could tell how much this result meant to Harbour as they vigorously supported each other every time they forced an error from Manawatu or won a penalty.

Former Manawatu man Hayden Triggs was industrious for Harbour and showed his veteran experience in the lineout as he provided a calming influence.

Despite the loss, Manawatu remained at the top of the Championship standings and they will look to bounce back when they host Southland next week.

Harbour's next outing will come against Auckland at Eden Park next weekend.

Finally: The fifth time was the charm for Harbour who finally registered their first win of the 2014 campaign. Can they build from here?

Full-credit: Harbour skipper Bryn Hall played a full-game here and was useful for the home side as they were able to enjoy some rare success.

North Harbour 24 (Luke Devcich, Pita Ahki tries; Daniel Halangahu 4 pen, con)
Manawatu 13 (Callum Gibbins tries; Otere Black 2 pen, con)
halftime: 11-10