League: Knights prevail in heated clash

Otangarei Knights player Herewini Edmonds played a vital role in his side's 20-17 win over the Muriwhenua Falcons. Photo / Michael Cunningham

The Otangarei Knights kept their heads in check as they battled toward a contentious 20-17 win over the Muriwhenua Falcons at Fishbone Park.

In a game which could have gone either way, Muriwhenua slipped to a three-point loss, but only inside the dying minutes of the fiercely fought encounter.

Otangarei coach Jackson Katene said the win at home meant a lot.

"Things seemed to be against us. I think we were hard done by some calls but [our] character came through, our level stood up and carried through to the end which was awesome to see.

"We haven't done that so far this year so it was really good to put something like that on the field."

The sides were at each others' throats at times, with neither team looking to back down. The fierce rivalry kept the match officials busy, with several players spending time in the sin bin for disruptive and aggressive play.

To add to the officials' woes, the Fishbone faithful held the ref in low regard from the sidelines on a few occasions, with an array of colourful words sent his way.

Referee Jim Dunn found himself in some tough predicaments, which led to time out being called several times in order to ensure that the adjudication methods were being adhered to.

Nonetheless, the players whom turned up to "play" league trudged on.

With several minutes left on the clock, it seemed the Falcons would claim victory as they landed a cheeky drop goal to snatch the lead.

However, Otangarei were looking to shake off their narrow loss to Hora Hora last week and weren't prepared to back down - a try in the dying breath of the game sealing the deal.

"This Muriwhenua team were really good. It was really pleasing that we came out on top," Katene said. "The discipline held out even though we had a lot of people in the bin ... We had to grind it out but you take those two points when they're on offer."