Fresh blood in the team makes Bulls slayers the ones to beat

Infused with new talent, Bay Slayers are quickly shaping up to be the team to beat in the north.
Wairoa Bulls travelled to Kerikeri for Saturday's round-six clash - which was the first full round of the Whangarei City and Districts Rugby League Competition.
Although the Bulls stuck with their hosts in the first half to trail by only two (16-14), the Slayers escaped any danger with a huge showing in the second 40 minutes.
Particular stand-outs for the Slayers were centre Jamal King and second rower Dayne Ritchie, who had massive games according to coach Justin Webster.
"Both guys were tryscorers for us, and they just managed to cut Wairoa up in the backs," he said.
Webster gave credit to the Bulls, saying they were a much improved unit to last year's team, and the change in management and coaching staff seemed to be paying off.
"They are definitely not a side to be taken lightly and I dare say they will beat a few more teams yet ... it was a close first half but we just managed to get away in the second half," he said.
The Slayers are yet to lose a game, which is excellent considering a large chunk of last year's side left for various reasons, Webster said.
However, the Bay Slayers gained former Kaikohe stand-off Anthony Clyde, who has provided plenty of direction and gusto in the halves, while new recruits such as half back Kody Te Hira have added spark to the side.
Although they have had wins over the likes of traditional competition heavyweights Moerewa and last year's premiers Kaikohe, the Slayers will be challenged this Saturday when they meet table leaders Portland, at Portland - who will be well rested after their round-six bye.
Meanwhile, Hokianga went down at home to a desperate City, 6-28, despite strong games from Shannon Haare and Charles Timperly.
City have had just two wins to date, and came back hard at their hosts Hokianga to get their season back on track.
Hikurangi had a solid 28-50 win over Moerewa, while Kaikohe reached a staggering 106 points on their way to beating Marist by 94 points and Takahiwai beat Otaua, 16-52.