Rangataua may be a relatively new club in Baywide Premier Women's Club Rugby, but the local side continues to prove they are a powerhouse in the competition.
For the second consecutive year, Rangataua secured a spot in the finals of the Baywide competition on Sunday, beating Waikite 46-10 at Te Ariki Park in what has been described as a "frustrating match to watch".
Waikite's loss means the season has ended for the five-time champions.
Rangataua heads into the finals after beating Waikite on Sunday. Photo/George Novak
Last season, Rangataua - in their first year in the competition - met Waikite in the final with the Rotorua side being crowned the 2017 Baywide champions after a gritty 21-10 win.
The 2018 season has seen a different outcome for Waikite, with Rangataua ending any hopes they had of making the final, which will result in a Western Bay side taking out the top spot.
A 22-5 win for Rangiuru against Whakarewarewa last weekend means they will face Rangataua in this weekend's final at Te Ariki Park - a match expected to be high in skill, a nail-biting battle and quality to watch.
Olivia Richardson with the ball. Photo/George Novak
Rangataua coach Paul Pou said going into Sunday's semifinal against Waikite they were more nervous than confident and, despite the game being "a frustrating match to watch", the girls did the best they could and came away with the win.
"They're [Waikite] no pushovers, they've won five titles ... we knew we were in for a fight," Pou said.
He said Waikite's strong forwards running the ball were a battle, and his side's performance lacked consistency, which meant they now had a focus to get the balance right ahead of the final this coming Sunday.
Rangataua took the win. Photo/George Novak
"We've got our focus points after the weekend's game."
"It takes a whole team to win a performance."
That balance also includes mental preparation especially with nerves running high. Pou said his own "nerves are wrecked" so he can only imagine how the players are feeling.
"It's a nervous time.
"Hopefully the girls can manage the pressure and stay focused."
