Counties Manukau vs Tasman Makos Prediction & Odds

Counties Manukau hosts Tasman Makos in what looms as a pivotal Round 3 clash for both teams, with the Steelers desperate to salvage their 2026 NPC campaign after three consecutive losses leave them at the bottom of the table. The Mako, despite a recent heavy 50-19 defeat to Hawke's Bay and an inconsistent 2026 start of one win and two losses, will draw confidence from their historical dominance over Counties, although the Steelers secured a 49-41 victory in their last encounter in 2025.

Counties will look to their recent try-scorers Josh Gray, Ioane Moananu, and Cam Church for attacking impetus, with AJ Alatimu providing precision from the tee. Tasman counters with their own attacking threats, including recent try-scorers Eli Oudenryn, Dylan Irvine, and Maloni Kunawave, supported by the reliable boot of William Havili and the dynamic Noah Hotham.

The key storyline revolves around whether Counties Manukau can harness their home crowd at Navigation Homes Stadium to overcome their dreadful start to the season and secure a much-needed victory against a Tasman side known for its formidable presence. This encounter will be a test of mental fortitude, as both teams seek to turn around their fluctuating fortunes in the intensely competitive 2026 National Provincial Championship.