Kaikohe Lions finally notched up a win after two dismal rounds in the Whangarei City and Districts Rugby League Competition, defeating a lackadaisical Takahiwai, 42-24.
Although Takahiwai started strongly on Saturday to issue a challenge to their hosts, their second-half performance did not come from the Takahiwai that teams knew and
respected, Kaikohe coach Benson Selwyn said.
"The first half was the better half of the game. Takahiwai could have led the first half if one of their tries was not disallowed, apparently the winger stepped out and linesman raised his flag - but we had the lead 12-10.
"In the second half, it was basically all us - and Taka came back with about 10 minutes to go," Selwyn said.
While it was virtually the same team the Lions played earlier in the season, Takahiwai lacked their usual drive and Selwyn said he felt as if his side wanted the win more, making the breaks and gelling well as a team.
Lions' second-rower Vincent Eramiha ran in the first try of the game after six minutes, with Hamuera and Te Wairongoa Tohu continued their scoring spree this season, adding one apiece.
The rest of the Lions' eight tries were shared around, with Shontayne Rau claiming one try and converting five.
Standoff Anthony Clyde dug deep for the match against his former teammates, and "much to Takahiwai's disgust" had an outstanding game for the Lions, Selwyn said.
Clyde transferred from Takahiwai to Kaikohe after his move north to Kaitaia and travels to Kaikohe once a week to train with the Lions.
Points are becoming more and more vital with only five rounds remaining until playoffs and Kaikohe's win keeps them in the hunt in second place, below Moerewa.
Moerewa travelled to Hokianga for their round 13 clash against the Pioneers, and came away with a narrow 24-26 win over their hosts and the invaluable two points to keep them on top of the ladder.
Bay Slayers had a big win at home over their closest rivals Portland Panthers.
Leading them 12-4 at half time, the Panthers made a comeback in the latter half but it was not enough, with the Slayers coming away with the 18-16 victory and two points, while City Knights and Hikurangi both had wins over Wairoa and Otaua respectively.
Whangarei City and Districts Rugby League Competition table standings after round 13:
Moerewa 22, Kaikohe 20, Takahiwai 16, Hikurangi 16, City Knights 16, Hokianga 14, Bay Slayers 12, Portland 12, Wairoa 2, Otaua 0.
