League: Self-belief helps Tigers win

Moerewa consolidated second place in the Whangarei and Districts Rugby League competition with another come-from-behind win over rivals Hokianga Pioneers.

The Tigers' 17-year-old fullback Jayden Hape scored in the final moments of the game to take back the lead from the home team and the conversion gave them a hard earned 32-28 victory.

Tigers' coach Tom Tauranga said there wasn't enough time to complete a set after the restart and he praised his side for their belief and ultimately their performance.

"It was a great try and it was right that it came from one of the young guys who all played so well today and who have all come up through the ranks of our club," he said.

He said young players like Hape, Adaneil Thompson and centre TJ Williams who was named player of the day are the reason the club is doing so well this season.

It was an important win for Moerewa, who strengthen their hold on second place on the table and are now three points clear of Hokianga and the Muriwhenua Falcons in joint third.

The Kaitaia club walloped Kaikohe 58- 6 at home to maintain their position on the table while in Whangarei, leaders Hikurangi humbled Northern Wairoa 62-6 to maintain their four point lead over the rest of the field.

Northern Wairoa's poor away form saw them drop from fifth into sixth, overtaken by Takahiwai, who beat Marist in a tight match 40-34.

City Knights beat an injury hit Hora Hora 48-14. Hora Hora kept in touch with the Knights in the first spell but couldn't maintain the effort throughout the match, allowing the Knights to pull away.

The Bay Slayers handed Otaua their first defeat of the second round to maintain their slim chances of making the playoffs, finally winning a close one 32-24.