Counties Manukau v Taranaki - Top Performers

Taranaki edged Counties Manukau 19-26 in the opening game in round 3 of the Mitre 10 Cup. 

Here are the Top Performers from the clash:

Toni Pulu - Counties

The Brumbies bound winger scored a sensational try in the dying minutes of the match beating about 7 defenders en route to the try line.

He was a constant threat to the Taranaki defence and was solid defensively.

Beaudein Waaka - Taranaki

The lively fullback was on hand to score two second-half tries for his side and was the only Taranaki player to get on the scoresheet in the second half.

His running and support lines were brilliant throughout the game and he finished the match with 21 points.

Seta Tamanivalu - Taranaki

Tamanivalu was dangerous throughout the game and drew in a number of defenders every time he touched the ball.

He set up Lachlan Boshier in the opening minutes of the match and was involved in everything good his side did.

Tevita Nabura - Counties

Like Pulu, Nabura was superb for Counties today and also touched down for a great try off a Nigel Ah Wong cross kick.

The pacey Highlander chased Fosita's kicks well and was solid defensively.

Ricky Riccitelli - Taranaki

Another busy performance by the Hurricanes hooker. He made a mountain of tackles and harassed the Counties attack with some stellar work at the breakdown.

His combination up front with Angus Ta'avo and Reuben O'Neill make Taranaki one of the strongest scrummaging packs in the competition.