Southland are the only side with a perfect record in the provincial rugby championship after their successful defence of the Ranfurly Shield.
Southland just held out Counties-Manukau 13-9 and they top the standings after 3 rounds with 13 points.
Canterbury are just a point behind following their big win over North Harbour, while Northland are third after their record 77-8 victory over Manawatu yesterday.
Northland, Taranaki, Auckland, Counties-Manukau and Wellington all have 10 points.
In the feature matches in round 4 Tasman play Canterbury, Wellington play Waikato and Hawke's bay play Southland.
