Rugby: Rampaging start derailed by loss

Northland centre Kaharau Atutolo steps clear of a Thames Valley tackler on day two of the National Roller Mills tournament. Photo / John Stone

Northland's rampaging start to the National Roller Mills tournament was derailed yesterday as the side slumped to a 48-3 loss to Auckland East.

Needing to front up for a must-win match against North Harbour today,, coach Morrice Colley said his players were feeling the pinch but believed they had what it takes to win.

"I think the boys are quite confident going into this one," Colley said.

Of yesterday's loss to Auckland East, he added "they're tracking along all right but today they let themselves down.

"We've had a chat with them and told them to put it behind them."

Starting the competition with a solid 48-12 win over King Country on Sunday, Northland then demolished Thames Valley 71-0.

"It was a nice way to build into the comp," Colley said.

Heading into today's match versus North Harbour, Northland's chances of a win look good after coming close against them in a pre-tournament warm-up match.

In other results yesterday, Bay of Plenty beat Counties Manukau 48-0, King Country beat Thames Valley 20-10 and Auckland West took down Taranaki 29-5.

Northland play North Harbour today, 12.30pm at Kensington Park.