24 Jun 2010

Maori finish with win over England

2:52 pm on 24 June 2010

Maori rugby has finished its three-Match centenary series unbeaten with a 35-28 win over England in Napier, the wing Hosea Gear scoring three of their four tries.

The Maori had to come from 13-0 down in the first half though, scoring two great tries to lead 17-13, and they trailed again after England hit back with their third try to lead 28-17 at half-time.

There was plenty of attacking play from both sides but it took two late penalty goals from the replacement first five Willie Ripia to make sure of the win.

England ran the ball from the kickoff and dominated the early stages of the match.

But with the All Black second-five Luke McAlister strong in the midfield the Maori backs always threatened England's strong defence.

The Maori also beat the Barbarians and Ireland. Their captain Liam Messam scored the other try and McAlister kicked a penalty and three conversions.

Steffon Armitage, Danny Care, Chris Ashton scored England's tries; Charlie Hodgson converted two and kicked three penalties.