ROCKCOTE BULLS RUN DOWN NSW COUNTRY IN NGĀ PUNA WAI THRILLER

Via The Star – by Jacob Page

The Canterbury Bulls overcame a 16-4 half-time deficit to beat New South Wales Country 17-16 thanks to a field goal from Michael Butson at Ngā Puna Wai on Saturday.

The Bulls bounced back from their recent 28-10 loss to the Akarana Falcons in the New Zealand Premiership final.

They were able to stop the flow of points in the second half and get themselves back in the arm-wrestle.

It was a good win for the Bulls after the touring New South Wales Country side sounded a warning on Tuesday by thrashing the North Island Championship combination side 74-6 in Rotorua.

The Bulls have now turned their attention to their game against Toa Samoa at Ngā Puna Wai on October 25.

“Having the opportunity to extend the representative programme for the Rockcote Canterbury Bulls against two quality overseas teams, one of which is an international line-up, presents a fantastic opportunity for our players to challenge themselves as individuals,” Canterbury Rugby League chief executive officer Duane Fyfe said.

“It also brings a different type of football to test team tactics and provide development for the coaching staff.

“Being able to host these teams at Ngā Puna Wai also adds to the event, this being evidenced last week by the France 19s team officials, who were very impressed and complimentary of the rugby league facilities.”