Defending champions take premiership lead

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Photo: Photosport Ltd 2019

Tasman’s moved to the top of the men’s national provincial rugby premiership.

The Mako have beaten Wellington 19-3 in blustery, wet conditions at Jerry Collins Stadium in Porirua.

Two penalties from Mitch Hunt and a try from Sione Havili saw Tasman lead 11-0 at halftime.

Tasman forward Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta scored the Mako’s second try in the 69th minute and a third Hunt penalty completed the scoring shortly before fulltime.

A second-half Jackson Garden-Bachop penalty was all Wellington had to show for their efforts.

Tasman’s now two points clear of Waikato, who visit third-placed Auckland tonight.

Wellington remain fourth and are now five points behind the Mako.

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