Cameron Roigard scoring one of two tries against France, July 4. Photo NZ Rugby, Joseph Johnson, Action Press

There goes the hot stepper!

Counties Manukau Steeler (who also moonlights as an All Black), Cameron Roigard stepped back up to test rugby again in the first match of the Nations Championship in Christchurch at the weekend.

While fancy footwork helped ensure the Hurricanes’ halfback breezed over the line to claim two tries against France, he was named player of the match for an all-round playmaking performance behind the scrum.

The All Blacks 34–32 win sees them on the right side of the ledger ahead of their round two clash against Italy at the Cake Tin this Saturday – kick-off 5.10pm.

As previously reported, Roigard is the only Steeler required by the All Blacks… so far.

McNamara Cup – new champs guaranteed

Despite topping rugby’s McNamara Cup table, Ardmore Marist could have been forgiven for hitting the speed wobbles last weekend.

However, a 33–14 semi-final win over Patumahoe – the only team to have beaten them this year – now sees the minor premiers take on third-placed Pukekohe in this weekend’s final. Pukekohe overcame defending champs, Karaka, 18–3 to earn their shot at the title.

It’s been a long time between drinks for both finalists – Ardmore Marist hasn’t claimed the cup since 2018 and Pukekohe’s last victory was in 2011.

The two teams will bid for the right to raise the cup at Navigation Homes Stadium this Saturday, July 11, from 3pm.

For more results across all grades, see cmrfu.co.nz.

Ardmore Marist v Pukekohe, round one, March 27. Photo Richard Spranger Photography

Where Eagles dare

Marist Saints may have marched into Prince Edward Park on Saturday for their Fox Memorial fixture against the Papakura Sea Eagles, but it’s fair to say they limped off.

Up 30–0 at halftime, the Sea Eagles soared in the second 40 stacking on the points to finish on the right side of an 82–6 final score.

While the undefeated Otahuhu Leopards have been dominating this year’s Auckland rugby league premier contest, there’s plenty of competition among their fellow contenders with just four points separating the next five teams.

Although the Sea Eagles are currently in fifth place, their exorcism of the Saints leaves them third in terms of their points differential.

However, the Papakura-based squad will need to keep the victories coming – next up, the Ponsonby Ponies this weekend – to secure a shot at the big dogs (big cats) from Otahuhu.

Chiefs concerned

A forgettable season is unfolding for the Chiefs Manawa. Following a 41–24 loss to Matatū at Navigation Homes Stadium at the weekend, the home team is poised to claim the Super Rugby Aupiki’s wooden spoon this season.

Two victories away against the Blues and Hurricanes Poua over the final two rounds will be needed for them to have any hope of avoiding this ignominious honour.

The competition’s inaugural winners in 2022 and runners-up in 2023 and 2024, the Chiefs Manawa will now be looking ahead to a comeback in 2027.

And, finally…

Would the real Liam Lawson please call home? We would love to interview you again before the 2026 Formula 1 season grinds to a halt.