Rugby: Farewell a sad one for Payne

Jared Payne. Photo / Getty Images

Counties Manukau 39 Northland 19

This was hardly the farewell Jared Payne had hoped for. In his last game before he departs for Europe, the Blues stalwart and Northland captain was on the end of a substantial defeat from a determined Counties Manukau side.

The scoreline perhaps did not reflect the match - Northland dominated possession and territory convincingly in the first half - but it did demonstrate the value of momentum within a game. The home side scored two tries in the first six minutes and never looked back as passes stuck and tackles were busted; Sherwin Stowers was a particular standout, helping himself to a hat-trick that showed off all his pace and elusiveness.

There was no lack of effort from Northland but it was stilted stuff. Gone was the self-assurance and error-free play that characterised their impressive recent win over Hawke's Bay.

"It was pretty disappointing," admitted Payne after the match. "We've had a big week - this was our third game in seven days and maybe we were a bit tired."

Counties were less structured, but more abrasive and dynamic. Before this match Counties had notched up just three victories all season but suddenly they looked like world-beaters; fierce at the confrontation and imperious on attack. Perhaps most impressive was their defence, against a Northland side that asked plenty of questions.

Sherwin Stowers blazed over in the second minute, getting on the outside of his man after a turnover defused some early Northland attacks.

Four minutes later, second five-eighths Bundee Aki then stepped through after being released by first five-eighths Baden Kerr, who had a strong first half. Halfback August Pulu appeared to have scored Counties' third try midway through the half but it was mysteriously disallowed for a double movement.

Northland finally got the try their enterprise deserved in the 35th minute, Bryce Heem dotting down in the corner after a set move that featured passing more appropriate to the touch field or basketball court. Pulu got his try early in the second half, powering over from close range, and Stowers' second try soon afterwards seemed to sew up the match with 30 minutes still on the clock.

Tim Nanai-Williams was another standout for the Steelers and gave Chiefs fans a preview of what they can look forward to in the number 15 jersey next year. Fritz Lee was impressive, while Rhyan Caine had a busy game at halfback for Northland. Counties finish a creditable third on the table, with Northland one place further back in the Championship.

Counties Manukau 39 (S. Stowers 3, B. Aki, A. Pulu, A. Tuala tries; B. Kerr 3 cons, pen), Northland 19 (B. Heem, R. Caine, J. McPhee tries; L. Munro 2 cons). Halftime 15-5.