LEAGUE: Lions just coming right

Kaikohe Lions are moving in the big guns at the right half of the season, according to their coach Benson Selwyn.
Following the Lions' 36-26 win over Takahiwai in round 10 of the Whangarei City and Districts Rugby League Competition, Selwyn felt things were falling into place for his side.
"We just used our basic game plan and did what we usually do, but it was the first time it really clicked and worked for us. I think we are coming together at the right time of the season - with just six rounds left to play until semifinals," the coach said.
"We had a near-full squad minus a couple of key players ... but we should be injury clear by the next two games and full strength in time for the semis. We're looking good but in saying that, we still have to win the next five games to make the semis," he added.
Takahiwai and Kaikohe were both on 12 points heading into the round, tied for second spot, along with Portland, and the Lions faced their visitors wearily.
"As with any team in this competition, you don't take them lightly ... Takahiwai brought it to us, they are hard to beat in their house, just like we are hard to beat in our house and we have a good record at home against them, which we kept intact."
But it was not all smooth sailing for the Lions. While they started strongly, thanks to centre Hamuera Tohu running in a quick try in the first five minutes. The hosts quickly added another converted try to lead 12-0 when Takahiwai clawed their way back into the game. At half-time, the intense clash was tied at 18-18.
Come the second 40, the Lions quickly established they meant business and dominated despite a late comeback from Takahiwai.
Tohu and scrum half William Slade were on form, with both players scoring doubles, and Shontain Tau's boot was on target, converting all six Lions' tries.
Selwyn attributed the win as a team effort. "There's no I in team ... we play as a team and have 13 player of the day awards every week instead of one."
In other matches, Portland ended a three round losing streak, with a 30-40 win over their hosts Hokianga to hold on to their second equal spot on the table with Kaikohe.
Tied table leaders Hikurangi Stags and Bay Slayers both had a week off, with the Stags out with the bye earning an easy two points to maintain top position, while Marist defaulted to the Slayers, meaning the Bay side also received two points to hold on to their four-point advantage.
Moerewa posted an impressive 62-16 win over City at Simpson Park, while the visiting Wairoa Bulls defeated Otaua, 8-38.
Preliminary WCRL Points after Round 10:
Hikurangi 18, Bay Slayers 18, Portland 14, Kaikohe 14, Takahiwai 12, Wairoa 12, Moerewa 10, Hokianga 9, City 8, Otaua 4, Marist 3.