Former All Black Richie Mounga returning to NZ
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James Mullan. Photo: Blake Armstrong/ActionPress A second half hat trick to James Mullan proved to be the difference in Northland's 22-17 win over Southland on Friday night. The replacement hooker drove over in the 44th, 62nd and 69th minutes from lineout drives close to the Stags' tryline, making the visitors pay dearly for ill discipline that allowed the hosts such good field position. Earlier, Southland had lead 7-0 at halftime thanks to a try to former Northland wing Scott Gregory. The first period had seen a high degree of forward play and kicking, as both sides would've fancied their chances after opening week losses. Highlanders flanker Sean Withy answered back after Mullan had scored his first try, but from then on Northland's forwards and first five Rivez Reihana asserted their dominance on the game and set Mullan up for his crucial second and third tries. Reihana tacked on a penalty goal for insurance with a few minutes remaining, before Southland took what they could get and ended the game by booting one of their own to earn a losing bonus point. The Taniwha made sure their new All Black Simon Parker now heads off to Argentina as a winner, and now look forward to a visit from Tasman next Saturday. Southland have another Friday night clash, against Manawatū. Read how the game unfolded here:

RNZ News
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Wide-open Farah Palmer Cup competition kicks off this weekend
Waikato celebrate their 2024 Farah Palmer Cup triumph. Photo: Photosport The Farah Palmer Cup kicks off this weekend for its 26th season and could be one of the closest competitions to date. Although most eyes will be on New Zealand's quest to go back-to-back at the Women's Rugby World Cup, a new crop of rising stars, as well as veterans out to prove they still have what it takes, will take centrestage back home. Former Black Ferns captain Les Elder said the 2025 FPC would mark a a return to the roots of the domestic competition. "It will just return to the purpose that it was originally, right? FPC is a completely amateur competition, so it allows the opportunity for our next wave of players to come through." She said the competition was crucial, not only for gaining Super Rugby Aupiki contracts, but also for potential national call-ups, if injuries struck in England. "It is through the FPC that talent is identified. That's why I love the Farah Palmer Cup, it's where you see the new talent." With the competition wide open, Manawatū have been tipped as dark horses. Fresh off promotion from the championship, they return to the premiership with most of their squad intact. "They haven't lost a significant amount of Black Ferns, so they're going to be a force to be reckoned with," Elder said. Counties Manukau are another side expected to contend, boasting a star-studded roster that includes Ruby Tui, Mererangi Paul and Hazel Tubic. "Counties will remain strong," Elder said. "A lot of their Black Ferns didn't make the World Cup, so they're available." Defending champions Waikato will look to go back-to-back, while traditional powerhouses Auckland and Canterbury lose nearly 10 players apiece to World Cup duties. Auckland have historically dominated the FPC, winning 16 titles, with Canterbury next closest with five. "They'll be impacted, but knowing how good their systems are, I think they'll still be competitive." This year's matches will mostly kick off at 2.35pm, with some 11.35am and 4.35pm starts, a move designed to better suit the competition's fanbase. "When you look at the fanbase for women's rugby, it's families - it's mums and daughters, dads and daughters," Elder said. "I've got three kids and I want them to see female rugby players in New Zealand, so I think it's a smart move." Despite the growing interest in women's rugby, Elder believed promotion of the Farah Palmer Cup still fell short. "Honestly speaking, I do think there's a lack of promotion. Not so long ago, Sport NZ did a study that showed only about 11 percent of sports coverage is dedicated to women's sport." Elder said players would need to stay sharp in the event of an injury crisis in England. "There'll be a group of players told to stay ready in the event of an injury, so they'll definitely all be playing." Saturday, 9 August All games at 2.05pm Auckland Storm v Waikato Women Taranaki Women v Northland Women Tasman Women v Wellington Pride Sunday, 10 August 11.35am Counties Manukau Heat v Bay of Plenty Volcanix 1.05pm Canterbury Women v Manawatū Cyclones 2.05pm Otago Spirit v North Harbour Hibiscus Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero , a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.