Rugby: Auckland trumps Taranaki

David Smith of Auckland looks to offload the ball during the Air New Zealand Cup match between Auckland and Taranaki. Photo / Getty Images

Auckland remains unbeaten in rugby';s Air New Zealand Cup after a 22-13 win over Taranaki at Eden Park.

The competition leaders were never really threatened but were responsible for 32 turnovers and several cases of dropped ball. Coach Pat Lam says his players are disappointed about the poor quality of their passing and decisions.

In other cup matches, Northland gave up a 10 point lead with 20 minutes remaining to lose 24-16 to Southland in Invercargill.

Northland number eight Jake Paringatai admits Southland was the better team. He says his side could not stick it out and Southland deserved the win.

Round five continues today with Otago tackling Bay of Plenty in Mt Maunganui at 2.35pm.

- NEWSTALK ZB