After a great grubber through the rush defense, it is unclear who grounded the ball over the line. The TMO has been called in to decide.
Counties Manukau aren't done yet, they immediately make their way back into the Wellington 22m, throwing everything at them phase after phase. Eventually a penalty is awarded to Counties after a Wellington tackler did not release before going for the ball. Counties opt not to take the easy 3 points, but instead opt to set up a 5m lineout.
Pulu gathers the ball at the back of a ruck and somehow finds a massive gap on the side of it, he goes 30m untouched before scoring under the posts. Perfects response by Counties Manukau.
And we are off. Wellington are off to a good start after they regather their own box kick and then win a penalty at the ruck in under a minute of play. Ripia lines up a shot at poles.
Hello and welcome to today's clash between Counties Manukau and Wellington, live from ECOLight stadium, Pukekohe. Counties come off a great performance which nearly saw them topple Canterbury but were let down by a kicking performance which saw them convert 2 of 6 opportunities. Wellington had a tough encounter against Tasman and eventually went down heavily in another home loss. Wellington welcomes the experienced Victor Vito back into the starting lineup which should certainly give them a needed boost. Ultimate Rugby will keep you up to date throughout the match.