New Zealand A come from behind

NZ A SHOWN "GET-OUT-OF-JAIL-FREE" CARD. In the tour opener versus Cumbria, a scratchy first half performance by NZ A saw them 18-0 down going into the break.

With 20 minutes left in the match the NZ side found itself 24 down without posting a single point of their own.

At this point the NZ boys gave Cumbria a reminder that this is an 80-minute game and a strong final quarter saw the game end in a 24 all draw.

According to Football Manager Bryce Wakely ?It was a much needed hit out? at the start of what will be a tough touring schedule.

Their next game will be against a National 2 Selection on Wednesday, 22 October 2003 at Keightly - kick off at 7.30pm.

NZ A will take confidence from the fact that they clawed their way back to a creditable draw against a Cumbrian team that included a number of Superleague players.

Cumbria 24 (C Sice, E Dowes, H Hill [2] tries, P Lupton 4 goals) HT-18

NZ A 24 (L Sione, H Va?asa, R Henry, T Pelenise tries, S Buckingham 4 goals) HT-0