Dixon with the throw, maul set up

From the 5m lineout, Counties work a penalty. Fosita goes for the line again

Falcons kick in charged down in the 22m, but counties cant gather, Flacon collects and is bundled into touch

Counties kick off the match

Good morning and welcome to Mclean Park for a Mitre 10 cup, Round 3 match between Hawkes Bay and Counties Manakau. These two teams are have had two very different starts to the season. Hawkes Bay have been very impressive and sit top of the Championship table, while Counties sit bottom of the Premiership table, having lost three out of three, including two at home and have only picked up the 3 bonus points.
History suggest its pretty even between these tow sides. Hawkes Bay don't have a fantastic record at Mclean Park, just two wins from 10 but after the start they have had, they will look to better that record. Expect a fierce contest