League: Top four to decide top two

Hokianga's Danny Makiha tries to rip the ball from Hikurangi Stags player Keiron Henare. Photo / Tania Whyte

Rugby League Northland Premiership title hopes will fade for two teams tomorrow as the major semifinals get under way at Toll Stadium.

The Hikurangi Stags, the Takahiwai Warriors, the Moerewa Tigers and the Hokianga Pioneers have all shrugged off their opponents to break into the top four.

Now the onus is on the teams, players, supporters and the league gods to determine their fate. "Our shoulders are going to be nice and stiff at the end of this one," Hikurangi's Joe Rau said of his team's semifinal match-up with Hokianga.

"Hokianga are always tough. You've always got to be prepared for a physical game against them. They're very aggressive and they've got an awesome team. We're looking forward to a very tough match."

Flying under the radar for a good portion of the season, Hokianga will go into the match as the underdogs. But coach Jason Smith is not ready to play his side's chances down.

"Hikurangi are going to be good. They're waiting," he said.

"We have to step up to their level. We have to just make our tackles, sets of six and be disciplined on the field."

Having a week off last week - along with minor premiers Hikurangi - after finishing the season in the top two, Takahiwai will be raring to get out the starting gates first in their semifinal against Moerewa.

After a patchy midseason, Takahiwai went to the drawing board and returned to the field with vigour to boost their goal of peaking come play-off time.

"We're going as good as can be expected," Takahiwai coach Mark Freeman said of his team's build-up toward tomorrow.

"I was quite surprised to see in Monday's paper the [Moerewa] coach thinking he is going to have an easier game, but so be it.

"Hopefully, we learned our lesson from last year, don't book anything until you're there. Earn the spot, don't think it's yours - that's our attitude."

Fighting toward a come-from-behind win against reigning premiers Otangarei in last weekend's minor semifinal, Moerewa coach Dave Bristowe was aware his side had plenty to work on.

"We just lacked a couple of things," Bristowe said of the minor semifinal performance.

"Our execution just wasn't there. I don't know what it was. Now we've got everyone back. We've got a full side, so I'm happy about that."

In addition to tomorrow's semifinals, the grand finals for the Jennian Homes junior leagues will take place tonight at the Mangakahia Sports Complex.

Portland will face off against Hikurangi for the 14s title at 5pm, while the Otaika Eagles will play Otaua Valleys for the 16s title and the Elijah Taylor Cup at 6.15pm.

In the 18s, the Northern Wairoa Bulls will play Marist Brothers for the Sam McKendry Cup title at 7.30pm.