The men's senior season began with a 3-round qualifying competition for the Fox Memorial Shield where there were 3 pools of 4, with the top 2 teams from each qualifying for the Fox Memorial Premier competition. Richmond Rovers, Papakura Sea Eagles, Te Atatu Roosters, and Point Chevalier Pirates automatically qualified due to finishing in the top 4 in the previous season. The six teams who finished in the top two and won qualification to join them were Otahuhu Leopards, Mount Albert Lions, Manukau Magpies, Bay Roskill Vikings, Marist Saints, and for the first time in many years the Ponsonby Ponies. The teams who had been in the first division who were in the Sharman Cup for 2025 were Howick Hornets, Glenora Bears, and Otara Scorpions. The Steele-Shanks Women's Premiership reduced from seven teams to five with Richmond Roses dropping into the championship (2nd division), and Otara, Taniwharau, and Pakuranga failing to field senior women's teams at all. The competition was made up of teams from Mount Albert, Papakura, Otahuhu, Marist, and Mangere East.
Otahuhu celebrating their Fox Memorial grand final win.
The Otahuhu Leopards completed a remarkable season when they won the Fox Memorial Shield for the 13th time following a hard fought 8-4 win over the Mt Albert Lions at Trusts Arena in Henderson on August 17. They went undefeated with 17 consecutive wins while their reserve grade side also went undefeated to win their championship. The Papakura Sea Eagles women's team went back to back when they beat the Mt Albert Lionesses 32-24.The Otara Scorpions caused an upset when they beat Hibiscus Coast Raiders 22-20 and ruined their undefeated run in the competition. It was the third time Otara had won the Sharman Cup.
The Fox Memorial Shield competition will begin after a 3-week Fox Qualifying competition. Due to covid disrupted seasons from 2020 to 2022 the Auckland Rugby League decided that “2023 and 2024 will work as a bridge between the 2022 shortened season and by 2025 will see a return to a more exclusive Fox Memorial Premiership competition”, with the 2025 season seeing only 10 teams in the Fox Memorial premiership, down from the 12 teams of 2023 and 2024.[3]
Club teams and grade participation
Glenfield and East Coast Bays fielded a combined team in the Under 16 grade. The 56 teams in the Manurewa club was an increase of seven from the previous season. Overall there was an increase of 20 teams from the 2024 season though the teams in the senior grades (men's and women's premiers and reserve grade sides) decreased from 72 in 2024 to 66 in 2025.
The men's premiership competition started on April 5 with a 3-round grading competition. There were 12 teams competing divided into 3 pools based on their seeding from their finishing positions at the end of the 2024 season.
Fox Memorial Qualifying
The 3 pools for qualifying were as follows with seedings in brackets based on the 2024 finishing positions:
Otahuhu in all likelihood handed Glenora their heaviest senior team defeat in their 94-year history with a 110–0 victory. Thirteen separate players scored tries for Otahuhu with William Fakatoumafi kicking 16 goals to go with a try for 36 individual points. New signing Sebastine Ikahihifo, a former New Zealand Warrior and Huddersfield Giants player scored a double. Marist easily beat Manurewa 56–10 with William, Cyruss, and Elam Payne scoring the opening tries for the winners.
Referee: [Match Managers: David Telea and Paula Betham
Round 2
The Manurewa v Otahuhu match was originally scheduled for Mountfort Park 1: Jack Shelly field but due to the wet weather it was closed and the match was transferred to Otahuhu's home ground of Bert Henham Park.
Zion Tanielu shifting the ball during the first half of Bay Roskill's comeback win over Otara.Otara attacking in the first half.
Mount Albert recorded a comfortable 42–6 over Hibiscus Coast at Stanmore Bay in a match filmed by Petes Filming.[10]Api Pewhairangi made his debut for the Lions. He had previously played for Parramatta Eels (2013), London Broncos (2016–18), and Te Atatu Roosters (2021–23) as well as representing Ireland. He had also played rugby union for Connacht and Ngati Porou East Coast. The game at Blockhouse Bay reserve saw Bay Roskill score first before Otara ran in four unconverted tries to lead 16–6 at half time. The second half saw the Vikings come back to score five tries to one and record a 14-point win.
5 April
Hibiscus Coast
6-42
Mount Albert
Stanmore Bay 1
2:30
Try: Samuel Waterworth (38m) Con: Notana Snowden (39m)
Cheoneth Henry scoring Bay Roskill's opening try.Taine Tekiri Ryan scoring in the corner for Hibiscus Coast.
Isaiah Fale scored a double for Mt Albert in their 34–16 win over Otara which secured their place in the Fox Memorial competition for 2025. Dion Fraser converted five of their six tries. Otara had led 6-4 until the 26th minute after an early converted try to Tovia Christopher Tovia. Former Bay Roskill junior, and Glenora and Richmond senior player Solomon Vasuvulagi scored one of Mount Albert's tries. At Blockhouse Bay Reserve the winner would make the Fox Memorial competition. Hibiscus Coast led 18–10 after 48 minutes following a scything run from Korey Craig for a try, however Bay Roskill rallied and scored five converted tries to win comfortably in the end. Former New Zealand Warrior, Ben Henry scoring in the 59th minute. Former professional player and NRL referee Henry Perenara scored Hibiscus Coast's opening try.
Referee: [Match Managers: Charish Luehetoa and Heath Walker]
5 April
Howick
32-28
Northcote
Paparoa Park 1
2:30
Try: Joel Iloahefaiva (16m), Mason Te Rore (2m), Unknown (41m), Peter Heretama-Wikaire 2 (53m, 59m), Anthony Gelling (63m) Con: Mason Te Rore (4m), Paula Fukofuka 3 (54m, 60m, 64m)
Try: Arno Mouton 2 (8m, 69m), Ethan Schaumkel (21m), Taine Neho (49m), Huston Holloway (80m) Con: James Bates 4 (9m, 22m, 51m, 80m)
Referee: [Match Manager: Gregory Williams]
Round 2
Kahn Munokoa scoring after cutting back through the Northcote defence.AJ Joubert scoring for Northcote late in the second half.
Manukau scored four first half tries to take an 18–0 lead at halftime. Northcote got the score to 22–12 after three unconverted tries but Manukau held them off to all but secure their place in the 2025 Fox Memorial competition. At Paparoa Park Ponsonby caused an upset 30–16 win over Howick. Amaramo Solomona scored a double for the winners with Charles Gabriel converting three of their six tries.
12 April
Northcote
16-28
Manukau
Birkenhead War Memorial 4
2:30
Try: Jason Bhana (41m), Siliga Autagavaia (47m), Jonathan Little (60m), AJ Joubert (77m)
Try: Lelefu Sang Yum (15m), Timor Williams (40m), Tony Siligi (43m), Amaramo Solomona 2 (49m, 80m), Rylie Williams (70m) Con: Charles Gabriel 3 (17m, 44m, 50m)
Mount Albert defending their line against Manukau during the first half.Mount Albert winger, Isaiah Fale with the ball during the second half with Sisi Toutai defending.
Papakura claimed the Stormont Shield for 2025 when they beat Richmond at Grey Lynn Park 30–26. The Stormont Shield match in recent years has been played in the opening round between the two Fox Memorial finalists from the previous season. Arthur Crichton scored a double while James Dowie kicked five goals to go with a try for the Sea Eagles. Siave Togoiu also scored against his former side. Marist caused something of an upset with a 30–26 win over Point Chevalier. Both teams scored five tries but the kicking of Doux Kauhiva was the difference with a 100% conversion rate. Second rower, Johnathan Falelua-Malio scored a double for Marist. At Jack Colvin Park, Ponsonby recorded a win in their first game in the first division for over 30 years. The match was for the Roope Rooster trophy with Ponsonby winning the trophy for the first time since 1973. Both teams also scored five tries each but Te Atatu was only able to convert one, while Charles Gabriel kicked four for the Ponies. At Fowlds Park the visiting Manukau side missed the services of injured Samuel Nati and were unable to score any tries in a 22–2 loss to a Mount Albert side which defended strongly. Dion Fraser scored a try and kicked three goals for the winners.
Referee: Anthony Elliot, [Match Manager: Joseph Mouton]
Round 2
Chaz Brown (Mt Albert) tackled on the Te Atatu try line during the first half.Charvez Watts Ikitule kicking ahead for Te Atatu during their second half comeback at Jack Colvin Park.
Marist trailed Richmond 30-0 after 48 minutes but fought back to make the score a more respectable 30-16. Trujon Nomani-Brown and Waikare Ratima both scored doubles for Richmond who claimed the Eddie Poching Memorial Cup. At Blockhouse Bay Reserve the teams traded tries in the first half with the Vikings taking an 18-16 lead into the break. The Vikings defence held the Ponies out for 39 second half minutes and ran in three tries to claim a ten point win. Xavier Tutaki scored twice for the home side with prolific point scorer Joshua Tanielu kicking four goals to go with a try. Manukau hung around against Papakura at Moyle Park and with 7 minutes to go only trailed 22-16 but the Sea Eagles sealed the win with a late try to Jarney Proctor. Te Atatu scored the upset of the round holding Mt Albert scoreless from the 30th minute to come back from 14-6 down to win 21-14. Zensei Inu organised the backline well with France Leger's clever kicking causing trouble and leading to Patrick Ioane-Unasa's winning try in the right corner following a Leger break and angled kick. Jeremiah Poutu scored a double for Mt Albert against his former team of the past two seasons. At Bert Henham Park, Otahuhu won their fifth straight game clearing out to a 20-6 halftime lead and scoring three more second half tries against a new look Point Chevalier side.
Referee: Leon Williamson (TJ's: Taura Taura and Tameilau Pauuvale)
Round 3
It took a 77th minute try to Ollie Horgan for Richmond to beat Bay Roskill who had levelled the scores minutes earlier with a converted try to Joshua Tanielu. The match was recorded for You Tube by G2G Productions.[33] At Murray Halberg Park, Marist opened the scoring with a try to Jahvaan Powell converted by Doux Kauhiva however they scored no further points with Manukau running in three tries all converted by Fred Muller to give them their first win. Mount Albert claimed the Roope Rooster trophy for the first time since 2020 with an 18-12 win against Ponsonby at Victoria Park which had not seen a Fox Memorial competition game for decades after being the early home of Auckland rugby league in the 1910s before the creation of Carlaw Park.[34] They only led 8-6 at halftime before edging out to victory. Rory Ropati the veteran Mt Albert forward broke his arm in two places and was ruled out for the season. Two of the competition favourites met at Prince Edward Park with Otahuhu winning comfortably 34-10 after taking a 12-6 lead into the break. William Fakatoumafi converted four of their tries. Point Chevalier took over their game in the second half against Te Atatu after only leading 16-14 at halftime. Tyrone Hurt-Pickering converted three of their six tries.
17 May
Richmond
28-24 (12-12)
Bay Roskill
Grey Lynn Park 2
2:30
Try: Mike Williams (8m), Ollie Horgan 2 (30m, 77m), Unknown (45m), Daniel Sausau (69m) Con: Hawaiiki Annandale 4/5 (9m, 32m, 46m, 71m)
Referee: Chris McMillan, (TJ's: Kemo Teariki and Paul Lorigan)
Round 4
Ollie Horgan has his try for Richmond disallowed after putting a foot on the touchline before his dive.Samuel Nati sliding a kick through in the second half of Manukau's win over Richmond.Paea Fotu in a bear hug tackle of his opposite as Manukau held a goal line stand for ten minutes late in the match.
Manukau claimed a rugged 22-6 win over Richmond at Moyle Park. They opened the scoring with a try to Taunga Arama before Richmond leveled the scores in the 32nd minute with a converted try to Delamo Atai. On the stroke of halftime the Magpies retook the lead with Paea Fotu crashing over for a 10-6 lead. The second half saw the game stopped for ten minutes after Koronato John was knocked unconscious going in low for a tackle on a Richmond centre. He was eventually able to slowly walk off the field and went to hospital as a precaution. Fred Muller extended the lead to 6 with a 64th minute penalty and then Manukau held Richmond out for repeat sets which included Richmond captain Casey Tomai busting through and nearly scoring but sustaining a head injury and having to leave the field. Manukau moved on to attack and a second try to Arama sealed the game in the 77th minute, with Desmond To'ofohe sneaking across from the play the ball on full time to blow the score out. The Manukau coach told the Counties Sports Hub that "we definitely defended our way to victory... we lost three players through injury the week before against Marist and then another three on Saturday, so we had to put forwards in the backline... through adversity they worked really hard for each other which allowed us to get the win".[40] At Fowlds Park, Mount Albert ran away with the game in the second half with backs Thompson Karena and Isaiah Fale both scoring doubles and Navajo Doyle converting all seven of their tries. Otahuhu continued on their way with yet another thrashing, beating Marist 62-4 at Bert Henham Park after leading 26-0 at halftime. William Fakatoumafi scored twice and added nine conversions for a personal tally of 26. Last years Fox player of the year Fine Vakautakakala scored his first try for his new club in the 30th minute. Tevita Mikaele and Phoenix Hunt also scored doubles. At Prince Edward Park the visiting Te Atatu side nearly sprang a surprise, tying the score in the 76th minute with a try to Moses Oge. It capped a furious second half comeback which saw 16 points in 14 minutes to bring them back from 26-10 down. Francis Leger missed the go ahead conversion before Papakura were awarded a penalty in the 79th minute which James Dowie goaled for a 32-30 win. Tamehana Paruru scored a double for the Sea Eagles while Patrick Ioane-Unasa did the same for the Roosters.
Try: Patrick Ioane-Unasa 2 (9m, 46m), Josh Samuels (27m), Clive Tu'ifua (52m), Kane Lefleur (60m), Moses Oge (74m) Con: Francis Leger 3/6 (29m, 47m, 52m)
Referee: Leon Williamson
Round 5
Patrick Ioane-Unasa scoring his second try in the 46th minute for Te Atatu.Doux Kauhiva about to grubber the ball into the in goal for Montell Tuese to follow through and score in the 55th minute.Lani Graham-Taufa surrounded by defenders during the second half of their 42-28 win over Te Atatu.
Mount Albert dominated Richmond at Grey Lynn Park, leading 18-0 at halftime and running in five more second half tries. Otahuhu continued on their winning ways with 8 straight including the grading round. The Counties Sports Hub had written prior to the game "the Leopards have been the competitions standout team through the first couple of months - breezing through the qualifiers unbeaten before winning four from four in the premiership".[46] Phoenix Hunt played in his 50th senior game for Otahuhu and capped it with a first half try in their 42-4 over Manukau at Moyle Park.[47] Prop, Connor Taurua-Purcell scored once in each half while William Fakatoumafi converted four tries. At Blockhouse Bay Reserve the visiting Point Chevalier side had a comfortable 52-20 after taking a 32-6 halftime lead. They had eight different try scorers with Mitchell Bebbington scoring twice. James Marriott scored a try and kicked five conversions while Etuate Fukofuka kicking three conversions to go with a try. With the win Otahuhu won the Jack Wright Cup. For Bay Roskill, veteran Ben Henry scored a try while Josh Tanielu crossed for his 4th try in as many games and also converted two tries. Marist dominated field position and possession for almost the entire game against Te Atatu but the Roosters managed to score each time they had a rare opportunity to stay in touch until the 70th minute when the Saints put the game out of reach with tries to Elijah Sami and Lani Graham-Taufa. The Marist forwards restricted Te Atatu to short set gains while marching down field when in possession. For Marist, Graham-Taufa scored twice while Doux Kauhiva scored a 70m runaway try and kicked five conversions. For Te Atatu wingers Romeo Schumann and Patrick Ioane-Unasa scored doubles. At Victoria Park the Papakura team led 22-0 at halftime and ran away with the game in the second half. There had been a long injury break in the first half when Pupi Miller was badly injured and required St John's Ambulance attention before the game could restart. For the Sea Eagles former Tongan rugby international Viliami Lolohea scored twice while James Dowie scored three tries and kicked two conversions. Jordan Kake and Joshua Tafili also scored doubles while another former Tongan rugby international Walter Fifita converted five tries.
Attendance: 150 Referee: Leon Williamson, (TJ's: Hemana Ryan and Michael Une)
Round 6
Kahn Munokoa cutting through to score the first of his three tries for Manukau.Shay Stevens (Manukau) taking a chip in his in goal during the second half of their win over Te Atatu.Lucas Adams, who recently debuted for Te Atatu at centre bringing the ball to the line.
Otahuhu continued their dominant run beating last years champions, Richmond, 50-0. Phoenix Hunt scored a first half hat trick with Soakai Taufa scoring tries either side of half time. William Fakatoumafi scored a try to go with 7 conversions. At Walker Park, Mt Albert were 22-14 winners in a game between two form sides with Mt Albert also claiming the Lani Latoa Cup. Latoa died after falling on a ball and breaking his wind pipe while playing for the North Harbour Sea Eagles at Carlaw Park in 1995.[53] The Lions opened the scoring after they regained possession after contesting a kick. A shift to the left saw Kalepo Paualaisa cut through to score. The Lions moved out to a 16-0 lead before Taipari Wikitera scored twice and Garry Tuilekutu once to bring the Pirates back to 16-14. The Lions finished the game off when Kahil Johnson scored by the posts. An injury plagued Te Atatu side struggled against Manukau who had Samuel Nati back from injury. Semisini Lopeti scored a 90m intercept against the run of play early in the game but from then on it was all the Magpies with experienced players Kahn Munokoa (3), captain Desmond To'ofohe (2), Sione Toutai, and Samuel Nati scoring tries. Te Atatu scored a couple of late consolation tries. Following the 79th minute try to Kane Lefleur the referee Leon Williamson called out Manukau centre Paea Fotu from the Manukau huddle and ordered him from the field. Prior to their game with Bay Roskill, the Papakura coach, Ruka Loza told the Counties Manukau Sports Hub we are "looking forward to the game this week as we look to build on the things we did well last week... Bay Roskill have a decent back five so we need to do a good job on trying to limit their metres and be clinical on out attack".[54] Papakura moved out to a 22-0 halftime lead before Bay Roskill mounted a comeback with three tries to narrow the score to 22-16 before late tries to Walter Fifita and Viliami Lolohea sealed the win for the Sea Eagles. At Victoria Park, Marist led 16-0 after 14 minutes but Ponsonby replied with tries to Timor Williams and Molisoni Faiva. Marist gradually widened their margin though to win 44-22. For the Saints, Lani Graham-Taufa scored three tries and Sione Langatau two with Doux Kauhiva kicking six goals.
Referee: Anthony Eliott, TJ's: Leigh Fletcher and Oliver Broadhead
Round 7
Fine Vakautakakala scoring a try to give Otahuhu a 10-8 lead.Viliami Kuli, the Otahuhu centre on attack in the second half.Dion Fraser about to receive the ball and score a consolation try for Mt Albert.
In the live streamed game Te Atatu suffered their 5th consecutive loss with Bay Roskill moving ahead of them on the points table through a six tries to three effort. Amanaki Veamatahau and Lawrence Mamia both scored doubles.[60] After three consecutive losses Richmond came up against Ponsonby who had not won since round 1. Richmond scored nine tries and ran away with the game in the second half after it had been 20-16 at halftime. Mike Williams scored a double against his former team while Caleb Savelio-Thompson and Oscar Su'a also crossed twice each. For Ponsonby Max Riechelmann scored at either end of the game. The top of the table clash between Mount Albert and Otahuhu at Fowlds Park was closely fought. A penalty goal by Navajo Doyle gave the Lions an 8-6 half time lead. Midway through the second half Otahuhu took the lead through a grubber kick by Fine Vakautakakala which he fell on over the line. The Leopards continued with their simple game plan of using their size to gain yardage and wear their opponent down though they upped the tempo in the second half. Vakautakakala scored twice as did Jamel Hunt and his brother, Phoenix Hunt also crossed for a try. The win gave the Otahuhu side the Roope Rooster trophy for the first time since 2010 and was the third time it had changed hands so far this season. Marist's co-captain, Sunia Akau'ola brought up his 100th game for Marist in their match with Papakura at Murray Halberg Park.[61] Papakura was in control of the game at halftime 18-6 and held off the Saints on the back of two tries to Walter Fifita, and one each to Stedman Lefau, Siave Togoiu and Viliami Lolohea. Manukau continued their promising season with a come from 22-14 behind midway through the second half. They scored tries to Fred Muller, Kahn Munokoa, and Paea Fotu to take the win with Muller kicking five goals.
21 June
Te Atatu
16-30 (6-20)
Bay Roskill
Jack Colvin Park 1, Te Atatu
2:30
Try: Clive Tu'ifua (16m), Sunia Hala (54m), Lucas Adams (71m) Con: Lucas Adams 2/3 (17m, 55m)
Try: Juelz Baker (8m), Callum Jones (36m), Noah Jensen (55m), Jackson Kite (60m) Con: James Marriott (9m), Etuate Fukofuka 2 (56m, 61m)
Referee: Keven Ah-Ken, TJ's: Maxine Godinet and James Priest
Round 8
The renewal of the spectator area at Grey Lynn Park (June 28, 2025).Malakai Cama (Pt Chevalier) scoring after the Richmond fullback let a kick bounce and the chasing Pirates secured the ball and shifted to the right.Trujon Nomani-Brown (Richmond) scoring after Kaylis Lundon charged down a kick and threw the ball infield to his support.Siave Togoiu's try that was ruled out after Walter Fifita forearmed Jeremiah Poutu in backplay leading to Fifita's sin binning and Poutu leaving the field.Jamie Henry, former Japanese rugby international scoring for Papakura.
The games were played in a mixture of showers and sunshine following a wet few days across Auckland. All the suburban fields were soft but in otherwise good condition. At Grey Lynn Park the visiting Pt Chevalier side prevailed in a seesaw battle with the lead changing hands four times. Pt Chevalier took an early lead after Richmond let a kick bounce and Pt Chevalier regained the ball and shifted to the right for Malakai Cama to cross easily. Later in the half Kaylis Lundon charged down a kick and threw a pass infield to the supporting Trujon Nomani-Brown who picked up the bouncing ball to score. At halftime Pt Chevalier led 16-12 but Richmond scored three converted tries to take a 28-20 lead. The Pirates finished the strongest with Blade Collins-Kamuhemu who was playing his former side dummying out of dummy half and forcing his way over with the conversion narrowing the deficit to two before a 76th minute penalty by Caleb Laiman tied the scores.[67] He then crossed for the match winner three minutes later. At Bert Henham Park the Otahuhu side ran away with another heavy victory, 72-6 over Te Atatu. Viliami Kuli had a hat trick in 30 minutes and Toaiti Ramsay also went in for three tries while Dylan Tavita and Andrew Nansen scored doubles. William Fakatoumafi added 20 to his season tally of points with a try and 8 conversions. Te Atatu's lone points came from a try to Semisini Lopeti converted by Lucas Adams which had made the scores 6-6 through 12 minutes before the Leopards completely took over. The win also meant that Otahuhu defended the Roope Rooster for the first time after taking it off Mt Albert the previous week. Their opponents, Te Atatu had been the side which began the season with it in their possession. Papakura led 10-8 after 25 minutes following tries to Walter Fifita and Stedman Lefau at Fowlds Park however the Mt Albert side responded with a try to Tommy Beale before halftime and John Aitu in the 55th minute to take the lead. With twenty minutes to go Papakura broke away on the left edge and with Siave Togoiu going in to score Fifita threw a forearm at Jeremiah Poutu in the back play and the try was ruled out with Fifita being sent to the sin bin. Poutu was helped from the field after the incident. The game then swung further Mt Abert's way with Phoenix Sorensen scoring after a break down the left sideline before they swung the ball across the field for Sorensen to exploit the stretched defense.[68] Papakura right winger Jamie Henry replied with a late try but James Dowie's conversion to tie the scores fell short hitting the padding of the left upright. Henry was on debut for his new side and had been playing rugby union in Japan since 2013 and had represented Japan in Sevens and one full international in 2018 against the All Blacks as well as playing for Toyota Verblitz (2017-21), Kamaishi Seawaves (2022-25), and the Sunwolves in 2019. Mt Albert then sealed victory on full time with Marcus Fraser diving over from dummy half.[69] Kahil Johnson converted three of their four tries. At Moyle Park, Manukau won their third game in a row to solidify 4th place. Samuel Nati opened the scoring after dummying and bouncing out of a tackle and scoring under the posts. His second came just before halftime in almost identical fashion. Fred (Leti) Muller finished the scoring with a swerving run which he converted to have 5 from 5 for the afternoon. Timor Williams was the sole scorer for Ponsonby who remain at the bottom of the table on points differential from Te Atatu.
Referee: Anthony Eliott, TJ's: Leigh Fletcher and Paul Lorigan
Round 9
Marist v Mt Albert at Margaret Griffen Park in Mt Roskill.Doux Kauhiva passing for Marist shortly before they opened the scoring.Sebastian Hindt passing for Bay Roskill v Manukau.Kahn Munokoa after picking up a loose ball and running 70m to give Manukau a 20-6 lead.Karekake Holamotu about to score for Manukau after Samuel Nati broke through, passed to Akuila Taha who fed Holamotu.Zion Tanielu about to score after taking a pass from his brother, Joshua.
Manukau had a 30-10 win over Bay Roskill after taking a 16-0 lead at halftime.[75] The Vikings threatened to make a game of it when Mackenzie Kata scored in the 44th minute and Joshua Tanielu converted but from the next set Tanielu tried to tap on a pass which went to ground and winger Kahn Munokoa picked up the loose ball and raced 70 metres to score. A penalty to Leti Muller and a try to Karekake Holamotu gave them an unassailable lead. At Jack Colvin Park an improving Richmond side ran in four first half tries for a 22-0 lead before Te Atatu scored their only points just after halftime with a try to Kane Lefleur. However the Bulldogs scored four more tries with Trujon Nomani-Brown finishing with seven conversions. The game between Marist and Mt Albert was transferred to Marist's second home ground, Margaret Griffen Park due to the recent wet weather. The ground was in very good condition for the live streamed game.[76] The Saints scored twice early to take a 10-0 lead. Their first try came after Jeremiah Poutu fielded a kick but threw a wild pass infield that went to ground for Laurence McFall to eventually gather and dive over. Mt Albert replied with a brilliant piece of work from Kalepo Paualaisa which gave AJ Ulugia space to beat the remaining defence. Poutu then made a long run down the right edge before the Lions swung it to the left for Paualaisa crossed in the left corner. Paualaisa put Ulugia away down the left side who passed back to Dion Fraser in support to cap an 80 metre effort and then Poutu bumped off a defender to make the halftime score 22-10. Kahil Johnson scored for Mt Albert early in the second half when Marist dropped a bomb, before Lani Graham Taufa, the twin brother of Moala Graham-Taufa crashed over to make the score 28-14. Navajo Doyle scored a 65th minute try to go with five conversions. Paualaisa capped off an excellent attacking performance winning the race to a short grubber from Fraser close to full time. At Prince Edward Park, Papakura opened the scoring with a try to Walter Fifita before Malakai Cama, Taipari Wikitera, and Juelz Baker crossed for tries to put the Pirates in front 20-16 at the break. Stedman Lefau scored twice for the Sea Eagles while Fifita added a second in the 72nd minute. James Dowie converted five of their six tries while Tyrone Hurt-Pickering only converted two of the Pirates five tries with Juelz Baker scoring a double. At Victoria Park the Ponsonby side found themselves level with Otahuhu 8-8 after half an hour after Mitchuel Elima ripped the ball off Emeliano Mikaele and dived over with Charles Gabriel's conversion and penalty soon after. However the Leopards were ultimately too strong with Toaiti Ramsay scoring two tries as did Tevita Mikaele, while Ben Wharton-Benedict scored a try in his 100th appearance for Otahuhu. Bostyn Hakaraia converted seven of their ten tries.
5 July
Bay Roskill
10-30 (0-16)
Manukau
Blockhouse Bay Reserve 4, Blockhouse Bay
2:30
Try: Mackenzie Kata (44m), Zion Tanielu (76m) Con: Joshua Tanielu (46m)
Referee: Brent Newton, TJ's: Curtis Wharekawa and Kemo Teariki
Round 10
Isileli Ula spilling a kick for Marist v Manukau at Margaret Griffen Park.Paea Fotu scoring for Manukau.Trujon Nomani-Brown attacking with Mike Williams outside him for Richmond at Blockhouse Bay Reserve.Joshua Tanielu kicking a penalty on fulltime.
Mt Albert solidified their position in second place with a 50-12 win over Ponsonby at Fowlds Park. Big winger, Jeremiah Poutu scored twice, while Navajo Doyle kicked five conversions. With Moyle Park in Māngere unfit due to recent consistent wet weather Manukau's home match against Marist was transferred to Margaret Griffen Park in Mt Roskill. Manukau continued their good form and ran out to a 32-0 halftime lead before adding another 26 points in the second half to a solitary try to Isileli Ula. Paea Fotu scored three tries, while Taunga Arama scored twice and Leti Muller converted seven of their 11 tries. At Blockhouse Bay Reserve, Bay Roskill scored a minor upset coming back from 16-6 down at halftime to win 30-22. Their win was built around towering spiral bombs from fullback Josh Tanielu with the Richmond fullback, Mose Newton either dropping or failing to get a hand on the majority of them. There were three tries which came directly from them in the same play with a noisy home crowd celebrating each of them with the last bomb from Ben Henry with Tanielu lying injured in his own half. Richmond threatened to draw the game when they made the score 28-22 with five minutes to go after a try to Mose Newton but on fulltime Bay Roskill were awarded a penalty following a one on one strip by Henry which Tanielu kicked. At Walker Park, the home Pt Chevalier side led 34-6 at halftime before Te Atatu showed some late fight by keeping the second half score to 16-10 in the Pirates favour who scored ten tries in total. At Bert Henham Park the undefeated Otahuhu team continued their trend of easy wins by beating Papakura who were in third place by 46 to 4. William Falatoumafi scored a try and kicked seven conversions. Standoff Bostyn Hakaraia scored twice for the Leopards with Walter Fifita scoring Papakura's only try.
12 July
Mt Albert
50-12 (22-8)
Ponsonby
Fowlds Park 1, Morningside
2:30
Try: Antonio Ulugia (10m), John Aitu (15m), Jeremiah Poutu 2 (21m, 77m), Solomon Vasuvulagi (33m), Dion Fraser (54m), L'ia Lafaele (75m), Tommy Beale (72m), Kalepo Paualaisa (80m) Con: Navajo Doyle 5 (12m, 16m, 70m, 73m, 78m), Dion Fraser (34m), Thompson Karena (80m)
Referee: Paki Parkinson, TJ's: Corey Jull and Ryan Doherty
Round 11
Lucas Adams (Te Atatu) passing to Francis Leger.Chaz Brown passing to Jeremiah Poutu who scores in the first half for Mt Albert.Luke Mayo making a tackle for Te Atatu.Kahil Johnson receiving a pass for Mt Albert in the final minutes.
Richmond scored two early tries to Seiulili'i Harrison Sutton and Ollie Horgan but then Marist replied with two tries of their own to narrow the score to 12-10 at halftime. However Richmond dominated the second half scoring four tries to take a 20 point win. At Victoria Park the Bay Roskill Vikings continued their good form with a 46-6 win over Ponsonby after a 20-0 halftime lead. Nixon Leaso scored twice while Jarvis Leaoseve scored three tries with Josh Tanielu converting four and Ben Henry one. The win kept their playoff hopes alive. At Prince Edward Park the home team suffered a second straight defeat going down to Manukau 25-22. The lead changed hands a few times during the match with Manukau eventually scoring the winning try in the 71st minute with Kahn Munokoa scoring his second after earlier running 80 metres to score his first. Leti Muller's conversion gave them a two point lead before he kicked a drop goal in the final stages. Raven Togiafofoa also scored twice for Manukau while for Papakura, Stedman Lefau scored two tries. Perhaps the try of the match went to Siave Togoiu who finished an attacking move which went the length of the field to score one of their other tries. Mt Albert sealed second place in the regular season with a 28-6 win over a gutsy Te Atatu side which defended well for much of the game, mainly only conceding tries on the edges. Te Atatu lost two chances to score on the left edge through a forward pass and a foot in touch, the second would have narrow the score to 16-10. Late in the first half Chaz Brown was sinbined for a leg trip on Lucas Adams who picked up a loose ball with a clear field ahead, while soon after Francis Leger was sinbinned for arguing with the referee following a penalty early in the second half. Mt Albert's points came from two tries to huge winger Jeremiah Poutu, while others went to David Jardine-Ngauamo, Thompson Karena, and Solomon Vasuvulagi, while Navajo Doyle converted four of them. Te Atatu's only try went to big prop Tasimani Lopita. Otahuhu extended their unbeaten run this season to fourteen after they ran out to a 30-0 halftime lead. Captain, Connor Taurua Purcell scored twice as did Toaiti Ramsay and Willam Fakatoumafi kicked four conversions.
19 July
Richmond
30-10 (12-10)
Marist
Grey Lynn Park 2, Grey Lynn
2:30
Try: Seiulili'i Harrison Sutton (7m), Ollie Horgan 2 (13m, 75m), Mose Newton (63m), Mike Williams (68m), Waikare Ratima (80m) Con: Hawaiiki Annandale 2 (9m, 65m), Ollie Horgan (14m)
Referee: Chris McMillan, TJ's: Corey Jull and Leigh Fletcher
Round 12
Taipari Wikitera scoring for Pt Chevalier late in the first half v Manukau.Samuel Nati leaping to catch a kick for Manukau.Dezman Laban carrying the ball into the Manukau line.Leti Muller scoring to give Manukau a 16-12 lead in the second half.
Otahuhu defended the Roope Rooster Trophy to retain it for the summer, and were also awarded the Rukutai Shield for winning the regular season. Ben Wharton-Benedict was also presented with his 'Leopard Ring' for playing 100 games for Otahuhu. Their 26-4 win over second placed Mt Albert was also their 15th consecutive win of the season. After Jeremiah Pouto scored for the Lions in the 4th minute they may have held hopes of an upset but those were to be their only points with Otahuhu scoring four converted tries to Tevita Mikaele, Conor Taurua-Purcell, Fine Vakautakakala, and Viliami Kuli with William Fakatoumafi converting all of them and adding a penalty. Richmond struggled to overcome Ponsonby for a long time in their game at Frey Lynn Park where the new seating area had been opened. Ponsonby led 14-10 at halftime before Richmond then began to dominate running in six second half tries including two to Trujon Nomani-Brown who also kicked five conversions. The loss meant that Ponsonby finished last on points differential behind Te Atatu. Papakura fullback James Dowie was said to be playing his 50th game for the club in their narrow 22-16 win over Marist who put up a much stronger showing than recent weeks and had led 14-10 at halftime. The win for the Sea Eagles assured them of a home quarterfinal for the following week. Bay Roskill gave themselves a chance of making the playoffs with a comfortable 44-18 win over Te Atatu. Nixon Leaso scored three tries while Josh Tanielu scored two and kicked four conversions. For Te Atatu centre Lucas Adams converted all three tries, one of which was scored by Noah Godfrey who was on debut. At Walker Park Pt Chevalier needed a win to guarantee a playoff spot with Bay Roskill and Richmond both winning their games. With time nearly up Jovilisi Jake Sloan scored but the Pirates were unable to convert the try from wide out with a draw meaning they missed the playoffs for the first time in many years. Manukau secured third position with the draw. The Pirates had jumped out to an 8-0 lead after 6 minutes with a double to Juelz Baker but the Magpies quickly replied when Samuel Nati gathered a kick allowed to bounce under the crossbar and fell over the line and then Kahn Munukoa regained the ball from a kick and ran over near the posts. Then in the second half Leti Muller cut through the defence and beat Setu Tu to score under the posts.
Referee: Chris McMillan, TJ's: Tameilau Pauuvale and Leigh Fletcher
Playoffs
Quarterfinals
Taunga Arama about to crash through the defence to score Manukau's first try in the first half.Timothy Vogel after being hit high in the second half for Bay Roskill.Zion Tanielu breaking through tackles to give Bay Roskill a 22-6 lead.Justus Leaoseve gathers in a loose ball from a kick to make the score 26-12 with just over ten minutes remaining.Moreketai Moananu scoring after Sameul Nati put him through a hole with four minutes left.Manukau supporters celebrating the game tying try to Paea Fotu with time up. Leti Muller's conversion gave Manukau the win.
Before a crowd of around 600 at Moyle Park in Māngere, the home side, Manukau Magpies pulled off a stunning comeback win over Bay Roskill Vikings. The Vikings had dominated the majority of the game by continuously moving the ball when in possession, running in 5 tries. Zion Tanielu dived through for his second try in the 51st minute to give them a 22-6 lead, and then Justus Leaoseve recovered a loose ball from an attacking kick under the posts with Josh Tanielu's conversion making it 28-12 with ten minutes remaining. Manukau began their comeback with a try on the right edge to loose forward, Aisake Tauatina, who was put through a hole by Leti Muller, then 6 minutes later Moreketai Moananu took a pass from Samuel Nati with the Vikings defence in disarray to score to the left of the posts. Muller converted both tries to narrow the score to 28-24. Then from the kickoff they attacked down the right side with Kahn Munokoa sprinting down field before being taken to ground. He wasn't held and got to his feet to offload, the ball eventually finding its way into the hands of Paea Fotu who beat the scrambling defence in the dying seconds of the match before an excited home crowd. Muller kicked the conversion from wide out on the right to win the match and send Manukau into the Fox Memorial semi finals for the first time in many years. Their opponent would be the Mt Albert Lions. At Prince Edward Park, Papakura ended Richmond's title defence in a replay of the 2024 with a 32-24 win. The Sea Eagles opened the scoring with a try to standoff Liam Prendergast in the 3rd minute converted by James Dowie. Richmond replied soon after when Waikare Ratima crossed for Trujon Nomai-Brown to level the scores. Papakura then retook the lead when they scored tries to Dowie and Arthur Crichton. A try to Kaylis Lundon, converted by Nomani-Brown meant the home side led by just 16-12 at the break. They extended their lead when Crichton scored his second try five minutes into the second half with the teams trading points with Mike Williams try which was converted putting the game in the balance at 28-24 with 20 minutes remaining. However winger Chris Masina Tuivai-Lopa gave Papakura an eight point lead when he crossed in the 63rd minute and they were attacking on full time when the final whistle went. The win meant that they would travel to Bert Henham Park to play Otahuhu in the other semi final.
Referee: Paki Parkinson, TJ's: Anthony Eliott and Corey Jull
Semi Finals
Solomon Vasuvulagi attacking for Mt Albert.Jeremiah Poutu ruled to have grounded the ball just short by Anthony Eliott.Sisi Toutai with the ball for Manukau in the first half.Lyrakai-Layke Posimani about to offload for Mt Albert.Thompson Karena scoring to give Mt Albert a 22-6 lead.Manukau forward, Paea Folau scoring to make it 22-10 in the 73rd minute.
Mt Albert held on to win 22-16 over a Manukau side which was unable to replicate its previous weeks come back feat. The Mt Albert forwards dominated much of the game and played error free football with Solomon Vasuvulagi and Lyrakai-Layke Posimani causing problems for the Manukau defence. Posimani opened the scoring when they outnumbered the defence on the left edge. Manukau had a few opportunities on attack but made errors then on the stroke of halftime Mt Albert attacked and made a break on the right before the ball found Jeremiah Poutu who fed inside to a supporting Kahil Johnson to cross to give the home team a 12-0 lead. They went further in front when Johnson kicked a penalty and then Poutu gathered a bouncing kick to narrowly stay in field and then in a tackle he offloaded to Thompson Karena who reached out to score. Manukau got on the scoreboard when Taunga Arama crashed over and Leti Muller converted but Mt Albert restored their lead when Poutu went over in the left corner after nice lead up play. With 7 minutes remaining Paea Folau crashed over and Leti Muller converted to make the score 22-12. Then almost on full time they scored in the left corner when Koronato John went over. There was no time for the restart and Mt Albert were left to celebrate their first grand final appearance since 2019. Papakura threatened a huge upset at Bert Henham Park when they held the lead late in the match before Otahuhu levelled and then finished stronger. Papakura scored in the opening minutes when Chris Masina Tuivai-Lopa crossed. Otahuhu replied with a converted try to Jamel Hunt, with the conversion putting them ahead. Papakura regained the lead when Tuivai-Lopa scored his second, before a Dylan Tavita try, converted by William Fakatoumafi gave the Leopards a 12-8 halftime lead. The Sea Eagles retook the lead when Jese Qarantiqo crashed over in the 52nd minute and James Dowie's conversion put them 14-12 in front. They held the lead until the 67th minute when Fakatoumafi kicked a conversion to level the scores and then two minutes from time a field goal put them in front. Then on full time Jamel Hunt scored his second to seal the victory and send them to their first grand final since 2011.
9 August
Mt Albert
22-16 (12-0)
Manukau
Fowlds Park 1, Morningside
2:30
Try: Lyrakai-Layke Posimani (12m), Kahil Johnson (40m), Thompson Karena (53m), Jeremiah Poutu (63m) Con: Navajo Doyle (13m), Kahil Johnson (40m) Pen: Kahil Johnson (51m)
Try: Chris Masina Tuivai-Lopa 2 (1m, 17m), Jese Qaraniqo (52m) Con: James Dowie 1/3 (53m)
Referee: Chris McMillan, TJ's: Daniel Caddy and David Millar
Fox Memorial Shield Grand Final
Otahuhu attacking in the first half.Mt Albert winger Kalepo Paualaisa on the last tackle during the second half.Emeliano Mikaele scoring Otahuhu's first try.
The grand final was played in West Auckland at the Trusts Arena on Sunday, August 17 in fine weather though the field was slippery with earlier rain. Otahuhu won a tightly contests match 8-4 with two second half tries to brothers Emeliano Mikaele and Tevita Mikaele. Mt Albert scored the only points of the first half when Navajo Doyle kicked a 33rd minute penalty. He doubled their lead ten minutes into the second half and when Dion Fraser broke through and passed to Jeremiah Poutu it seemed an upset win was taking shape. However the powerful Otahuhu side gradually took control making strong carries and dominating field position in the last 25 minutes forcing errors and repeat sets from Mt Albert. They came close to scoring several times before Emeliano Mikaele scored following a 60 metre run by Toaiti Ramsey before two tackles later they attacked the left edge with Sebastine Ikihihifo offloading in a tackle to William Fakatoumafi who put Mikaele over in the left corner. Toaiti Ramsey made another break running for 30 metres after breaking through the centre. Then Otahuhu forced an error from the following Mt Albert set ten metres out from their line and after shifting the ball across field Tevita Mikaele crashed through the tackle of Thompson Karena to plant the ball just inside the right corner. Ramsey made several threatening runs and Andrew Nansen was a constant threat at fullback for the Leopards. The Man of the Match was Sebastine Ikahihifo who carried strongly and offloaded several times including the crucial one for their first try. The match was live streamed on the Auckland Rugby League YouTube channel.[101]
Attendance: 1,000 Referee: Paki Parkinson, TJ's: Anthony Eliott and Chris McMillan
Full season top try scorers and point scorers
The full season point scoring and tries is from the 3 Fox qualifying games and the regular season, and then playoff games for the Fox Memorial Premiership. Several games did not have points entered into the ARL online database while some matches had individual point scorers unnamed and some scoring entries may be erroneous so the scoring is unofficial and incomplete though for the most part an accurate representation of the leading scorers. William Fakatoumafi of Otahuhu was the run away point scoring leader, while his team mates also dominated the try scoring standings with Tevita Mikaele scoring 15 and Phoenix Hunt, Andrew Nansen, and Toaiti Ramsey scoring 14 each. Last years leading scorer Kahn Munokoa scored 14 also for Manukau.
The Mt Albert Lionesses easily beat the new Mangere East Lady Hawks side at Cornwall Park 2. Anastasia Sekene scored three tries, and Lua Hakofa and Jade Tuilaepa both scored doubles for the winners. Paulina Morris-Ponga converted eight of their ten tries. In an even match on the Cornwall Park 1 field the reigning champion Papakura Sea Eagles held on for a 6 point win after leading 20-0 midway through the first half. Former New Zealand Warriors and New Zealand womens player Amber-Jessie Kani scored a try for the Sea Eagles. The match was live streamed on the Auckland Rugby League You Tube channel.[103]
At Fowlds Park the Lionesses scored an easy win. They led 28-10 at halftime before easing out to a 38 point win. Patisepa Kengike scored a hat-trick and Anastasia Sekene getting a double. Palina Morris-Ponga converted six of their tries. There were thirteen tries scored at Walter Massey Park though only one was converted (by Tiana Thompson). For the visiting 'Leopards Ladies' they had nine different try scorers making up their 36 points while for the 'Lady Hawks' Kalonikakala Fifita scored a second half double.
24 May
Mt Albert Lionesses
54-16 (28-10)
Marist Women
Fowlds Park 2
12:45
Try: Patisepa Kengike 3 (4m, 10m, 58m), Anastasia Sekene 2 (14m, 63m), Alice Shannon (24m), Jade Tuilaepa (27m), Mele Feaomoengalu (42m), Aleisha Taylor (52m), Keri Ratima (74m) Con: Paulina Morris-Ponga 6 (6m, 15m, 25m, 28m, 43m, 54m), Aleisha Taylor (65m)
Otahuhu scored three unconverted tries to Jasmin Munro, Georgia Wharton-Benedict, and Jeyla Ropati to take a 12-0 halftime lead before a Mt Albert comeback saw them get it to 12-10 in the 73rd minute when Anastasia Sekene scored. The conversion missed and Otahuhu held on for the win. Shonte To'a scored three tries for Papakura in their easy win over Marist with Tiana-Malia Kawaihoa-Marquez crossing for two tries. Platinum Marsters converted five of their ten tries.
Mt Albert Lionesses took a 28-6 lead into halftime before a big comeback by Pt Chevalier who scored four unvconverted tries but ultimately falling ten points short. For the Lionesses Pamela McHardy scored a try and kicked four conversions. At McManus Park, Onjeurlina Hunt scored a double for the Leopards including one in the 76th minute which levelled the scores with Tiana Thomson's conversion proving the winner. For Papakura, Ana Taumalolo and Shania Berryman scored two tries each but Platinum Marsters was only able to convert one of them and all 18 of their points came in the first half.
In the only round 6 match to be played the Otahuhu Leopards Ladies won a hard fought game against the winless Mangere East Lady Hawks. They led 24-8 soon after halftime but the Lady Hawks scored two tries to one to make the score respectable.For Otahuhu Jasmin Munro scored twice while Tiana Thomson crossed for a try and kicked two conversions. For the Lady Hawks Tiare-Anne Leauga scored a double.
Try: Tiare-Anne Leauga 2 (26m, 74m), Alyssa Vaha'akolo-Ngaika (35m), Shafenior Fealofani Lui (56m) Con: Ramouner Serenity Henry (57m)
Referee: Hemana Ryan
Round 7
Tiani Fakauho carrying for the Mangere East Lady Hawks during the second half at Margaret Griffen Park in Mt Roskill.Tiare-Anne Leauga scoring her 4th try for the Lady Hawks.
In the ARL livestreamed match at Margaret Griffen Park in Mt Roskill the visiting Mangere East Lady Hawks were too strong for Marist.[117] The match commentators were Lynley Tierney-Mani, Nigel Rattray, and Jono Ngan Woo. The game had been transferred from Murray Halberg Park after the recent wet weather. Tiare-Anne Leauga crossed twice in each half for four tries. Her first came in the second minute when she used her speed from 30 metres out to cross in the left corner. Five minutes later she took a pass 65 metres out breaking down the left before beating the Marist fullback Ella Timo to score behind the posts. Lupe Finau replied for Marist after a movement to the right and she dived over in a tackle in the right corner. At the break the score was 24-8 but immediately Leauga scored a 50 metre try cutting through the middle and scoring behind the posts. Navelzen Taupo used her power to crash over in the 51st minute which was her second try for the Saints. Ella Timo was sinbinned by referee Nigel Williams after a sideline push and shove with ten minutes to go. Latesha Mitchener scored a try and kicked three conversions. The Lady Hawks win was their first of the season and saw them move past Marist off the bottom of the standings. At Fowlds Park the Lionesses led 16-6 at halftime after tries to Anastasia Sekene, Paulina Morris-Ponga, and Claudia Hanham however Papakura took over the game after the break running in four converted tries and holding the Lionesses scoreless. With the win Papakura moved to the top of the standings with the previous leaders the Lionesses dropping down to third.
5 July
Marist Women
12-44 (8-24)
Mangere East Lady Hawks
Margaret Griffen Park 1, Mt Roskill
12:45
Try: Lupe Finau (16m), Navelzen Taupo 2 (32m, 51m) Con: Ella Timo 0/3
Mt Albert attacking at Fowlds Park.Otahuhu on attack.
In the live streamed match the second placed Otahuhu Leopards Ladies had a narrow win over Mt Albert Lionesses. The Leopards led at halftime 10-4 after tries to Jasmin Munro and Onjeurlina Hunt who crashed over. They extended their lead in the 45th minute when Tiana Thomson scored but then Mt Albert crossed twice through Anastasia Sekene and Alyssa Malamatenios. Paulina Morris-Ponga missed the conversion which would have tied the scores and Otahuhu held on for the win. At Margaret Griffen Park the Papakura side had an easy 68-6 win over Marist. For the winners Danika Manase, Queenie E Wai Putaea, Alexis Hapuku, and Tiana-Malia Kelelii Kawaihoa-Marquez all scored doubles.[122]
Referee: David Millar, TJ's: Oliver Broadhead and Paul Lorigan
Major Semi-Final
The Mt Albert Lionesses scored an upset win in the major semi-final to make the grand final. The scores were tied 8-8 at halftime following tries to Jasmin Munro and Lourdes Tuiala for Otahuhu and Patisepa Kengike and Anatasia Sekene for the Lionesses. The Lionesses then took control of the game with they scored two tries which Hanae Vito-Toleafoa converted for a 20-8 lead with 15 minutes remaining. A converted try to Jasmin Munro gave the Leopards a chance before Paulina Morris-Onga sealed the win when she crossed in the 74th minute with Vito-Toleafoa kicking her third conversion.
Referee: Brent Newton, TJ's: David Millar and Taura Taura
Steele-Shanks Cup Grand Final
The grand final was played in West Auckland at the Trusts Arena on Sunday, August 17. Mt Albert Lionesses opened the scoring when Jade Tuilaepa broke through and ran away to score close to the posts however Papakura then totally dominated the next 40 minutes running in five tries led by loose forward Shonte To'a who carried strongly and broke several tackles. Their first was to captain Amber Kani. Ana Taumalolo crashed over for three quick tries following breaks down field. At 26-6 early in the second half following a try to Danika Manase the game looked finished as a contest but Mt Albert scored two converted tries to Anatasia Sekene and Mafi Faukafa saw the lead narrowed to eight points. Sekene's first came after a 70 metre run where she beat multiple defenders. Papakura scored a converted try in the 64th minute to Jodeci Joseph who ran out of dummy half and crashed over, and Mt Albert then replied with a consolation to Sekene with 6 minutes to go who this time ran 80 metres to score. The Sea Eagles then closed the game out for their second straight title. The match was live streamed on the Auckland Rugby League YouTube channel.[130]
Referee: David Millar, TJ's: Tameilau Pauuvale and Nigel Williams
Sharman Cup
Standings
The Mt Albert side withdrew from the competition after two default losses midseason forcing a bye for their remaining opponents who were awarded two competition points.
Try: Titanian Palei 3 (8m, 48m, 56m), Filipo Utai 3 (29m, 39m, 59m), Kurtis Cooper (71m) Con: Titanian Palei 2 (10m, 39m), Jody Henry (58m)
Referee: [Match Manager: Neil Petaia]
3 May
Mangere East
46-16
Glenora
Walter Massey Park 1
2:30
Try: Joshua Halatanu (1m), Siale Lavuavu 3 (20m, 51m, 66m), Numiamasasulu Tema (31m), Nukurua Ngere (60m), John Paulo (64m), Lenin Simi (76m), Townsend Unaga (78m) Con: Numiamasasulu Tema 2 (2m, 20m), Howard Brown 3 (53m, 61m, 64m)
Try: Nukurua Ngere (21m), Joshua Halatanu (25m), Semisi Tuipulotu (43m), Numiamasasulu Tema (47m), Jasiah Vaiouga (57m), Lemalie Seiuli (65m), Siale Lavulavu (77m) Con: Numiamasasulu Tema 3 (21m, 43m, 47m), Howard Brown (80m)
Referee: Brent Newton
Round 4
Glenora's struggles continued losing 54-12 at home. Lemalie Seiuli and Siale Lavulavu both scored three tries for the Hawks. At Birkenhead War Memorial Northcote won 52-22 over Pakuranga with Vinnie Chan running in four tries through the middle section of the game and James Bates converting eight of their nine tries. Johnathan Kusimweray crossed twice for the Jaguars. On Jack Shelly Field the Manurewa side ran away with a 58-4 win after the scores were 16-4 at halftime. Elijah Solomona scored a second half hat-trick with Tyson Slade scoring twice and Nathan Simmons adding five conversions to his try for the Marlins. Waitemata's only try was scored by Roy Meki Siovaiata. At Ngati Ōtara Park the Scorpions burst out to a 24-0 half time lead thanks to four long range tries between the 9th and 21st minutes, and by the end of the game captain Filipo Utai (3), Kurtis Cooper (2), and Atelea Filo (2) had all crossed multiple times. Howick's points came after the break with Mason Te Rore and Lopingi Lama scoring one try each. The match was recorded for You Tube by G2G Productions.[149]
24 May
Glenora
12-54 (4-30)
Mangere East
Harold Moody 1
2:30
Try: Sione Ma'asi (14m), Bronson Bernard (64m), Tevita Misiloi (70m)
Try: Mason Te Rore (43m), Pingi Lama (52m) Con: Josh Setefano 0/2
Referee: Jack Feavers
Round 5
The match between Manurewa and Northcote at Mountfort Park was recorded for You Tube by G2G Productions. Manurewa half Daniel du Plessis slipped through from close to the line and then Jeremiah Tamatimu crashed over to give Manurewa a 10-0 lead. Northcote responded with tries to Tre Stylz Te Awa and Arno Mouton. Manurewa centre Elijah Solomona scored in the right corner to give the home side a 14-12 lead at the half time break. The Tigers however dominated the second half scoring three tries, two of which James Bates converted to go with three other goals to make the score comfortable.[155] Otara beat Pakuranga 62-14 and after the game in an interview with the Counties Sports Hub the Otara coach Willie Maea said "we needed to put in a strong effort as the bye weekend can sometimes act against us... we also have a team focus to protect our backyard by winning our home games...".[156]
Try: Korey Craig (2m), Kavana Te Ryan (6m), Taine Tekiri Ryan (9m), George Prescott (32m), Samuel Waterworth (60m) Con: Notana Snowden 3/5 (3m, 10m, 61m)
Mangere East threatened to win easily against Manurewa, leading 28-6 at halftime but Manurewa held them in the second half for a final score of 40-18. For the Hawks Nukurua Ngere scored three tries. Both Christian Sifakula (6/7), and Nathan Simmons (3/3) kicked a combined 9 for 10 while Simmons also added a try for the Marlins. At Birkenhead War Memorial Park, the home Northcote side won comfortably over Glenora. They extended an 18-0 halftime lead to win 40-6 through nine tries, five of which were converted by Taine Neho. Teremate Teremate scored three tries. Hibiscus Coast scored 40 first half points to 0 at a wet Ti Rakau Park and didn't let up in the second half adding another 32 unanswered points. Full back Korey Craig backed up well using his pace to score four tries while Nehumi Teu, Kavana Te Kiri-Ryan, and Nathan Austen all scored doubles. Notana Snowden kicked well, converting 10 of their 13 tries. The match was streamed for YouTube by G2G Productions.[168] Another home team suffered a heavy defeat with Waitemata going down to Otara 70-0 at the Ranui Domain. Tino Palei scored four tries for the Scorpions, while Filipo Utai scored two. Vaicane Marsters also scored twice to go with three conversions. He and Palei only converted five of their fifteen tries. Their coach, Willie Maea said "after our loss to the Raiders it was important to get back in the winning path as we prepare for our final month of games before finals". "The boys for into their job straight from kickoff and despite the weather played a good, positive game... a good team effort with strong carries in the middle to create space for the edges to score".[169]
Try: Tovia Christopher (7m), Galuafi Sega (11m), Raiden Siafolau (14m), Kurtis Cooper (19m), Vaicane Marsters 2 (22m, 71m), Tino Palei 4 (25m, 28m, 36m, 77m), Filipo Utai 2 (42m, 51m), Rico Toeava Ward (48m), Jaycob Ru (56m), Josiah Siitia (59m) Con: Tino Palei 2 (8m, 15m), Vaicane Marsters 3 (27m, 30m, 61m)
Referee: Mina Nomani
Round 8
Manurewa scored an upset 20-18 win over Otara. it was four tries each but Nathan Simmons converted two tries while for Otara Vaicane Marsters only converted one of Otara's. Tamenu Temanu's 57th minute try gave them the lead which they held on to. At Paparoa Park the home team moved out to a 16-0 half time lead which they stretched to 38-0 before a late rally by the Tigers gave some respectability. Peter Heretama Wikaire scored three tries and Paula Fukofuka two, while Rongonui Andrews scored a try to go with five conversions. At Stanmore Bay the home team was up 50-0 at halftime and added another 48 points in the second half to continue Glenora's awful season. Korey Craig, the Raiders fullback scored a remarkable 50 points from six tries and 13 goals. Alipate Liava'a, Jonathan Milne, and Nathan Natano scored two tries each. At Ti Rakau Park the visiting Waitemata side scored a converted try on fulltime to Dason Masiutama to draw the match 14-14 after the Jaguars led 10-4 at halftime and 14-4 soon after. Masiutama scored a double.
Try: Kavana Te Kiri-Ryan (9m), Max Fuller (22m), Taine Te Kiri Ryan (41m), Nehumi Teu (57m) Con: Notana Snowden 2/4 (23m, 58m) Drop: Notana Snowden (78m)
Referee: Keven Ah-Ken, TJ's: Hemana Ryan and Nigel Williams
Sharman Cup Grand Final
The grand final was played in West Auckland at the Trusts Arena on Sunday, August 17 with an early morning kickoff time of 9:45am. Otara led 12-4 at halftime before Hibiscus Coast came back to level the scores at 16-16. A second try to Taine Tekiri-Ryan gave Notana Snowden a chance to tie the score with ten minutes remaining but his kick fell short. Otara held on in the final stages to win the Sharman Cup for the third time in their history following wins in 2014 and 2023. The match was live streamed on the ARL YouTube channel.[196]
The June 15 match between Glenfield and Richmond was declared a no result. The Glenfield team was then suspended for their next two matches which resulted in default losses. After defaulting to Pukekohe on June 22, the East Coast Bays side withdrew from the competition.
Referee: Tameilau Pauuvale, TJ's: David Millar and Liam Clayton
Fox Premier Reserves
The Otahuhu side, like their senior team was undefeated through the season. After an exodus of senior players in the off season the Te Atatu Roosters failed to field a reserve grade team for the first time in five decades. As in previous seasons the Ponsonby club failed to field a premier reserve team also meaning the competition was restricted to eight teams.
The grand final was played between Papatoetoe and Glenora at Cornwall Park on August 2. It was recorded by Auckland Rugby League and live streamed.[204]
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