The market's verdict

The betting market closed with Auckland at 1.47 — an implied 63% chance. Manawatu upset it.

• Auckland: opened 1.29, closed 1.47 (63%)
• Manawatu: opened 3.80, closed 2.75 (34%)
• Draw: opened 23.00, closed 27.00 (3%)

Half-time: Auckland 12 - 14 Manawatu.

Manawatu — recent form

• 2026-08-21Hawke's Bay 59-17 Manawatu
• 2026-08-15Manawatu 27-29 Otago
• 2026-08-09Manawatu 36-35 Southland

Auckland — recent form

• 2026-09-18Tasman 22-21 Auckland
• 2026-08-28Auckland 19-22 Bay of Plenty
• 2026-08-15Auckland 31-41 Hawke's Bay