Rugby: Maori side beat visitors in keen tussle

The Northland Maori men's rugby team celebrate a fast-paced win against the Cook Islands Under-20s side.

The Northland Maori men's rugby team hosted the Cook Islands Under-20s in a match to help the Pacific Island side bolster their chance of success at this year's Junior World Rugby Championship in Italy.

The friendly fixture, played under lights at Waipu's Caledonian Park, provided the Northland team with a hit-out after an inter-regional series of games between Northland, Auckland, North Harbour, Counties Manakau, Waikato and Bay of Plenty fell through.

The game began at a strong pace. Northland's ability to hit gaps was on song but the Cook Island team stuck to their task with rock-solid defence.

The Maori team came away with a few tries but not before the Cook Island team kicked a penalty to stay in the match.

Northland Maori led 17-8 at halftime.

The second half started at a similarly hectic pace but the Cook Island team had more urgency about their game, scoring a quick try to bring the visitors within four points.

This spurred renewed effort by Northland Maori who scored another two tries to edge ahead of the visitors before winning 34-18.

Northland Maori coach Hone Peeni said the occasion was a good excuse for a game of rugby.

"We put a hell of a lot of effort into prepping for the games," Peeni said.

"I'm just glad our boys had a run. We just got together, had a good game and a good night as well.

"We wish the Cook Islands team all the best for the rest of their campaign."