LEAGUE - Spy on the Bank

Prison team beaten at secure home turf
I mentioned having mixed feelings on the prison team, Ngawha Saints, playing in the Whangarei City and Districts rugby league competition. However, after reading last week's excellent Advocate article on the conditions they have to adhere to, I have no problems at all.
They have added some spice and mounting interest with their on-going results. Naturally they do have the home-ground advantage and no excuses for not attending training.
At first they looked to be unbeatable on their home patch, but recent results have proved otherwise. First rolled by the Portland Panthers and then by this season's big surprise, the Wairoa Bulls. I did see the Bulls in action against the more fancied Takahiwai Warriors a couple of weeks ago on their home ground, Te Kopuru. I was impressed with their raw talent and relentless enthusiasm.
It was obvious there were a number of converts from the other code where the policy seems "if in doubt kick it out". Aimless kicks early in the tackle count are not the go.
The Bulls were right in this game, but with 15 minutes to go their fitness told. On the other hand, the Takahiwai squad can reflect on the benefit of those "gut wrenching" laps at training. There's no substitute for fitness.
The Panthers were on a roll after their win over the Ngawha Saints, sending out a message to the other clubs. They are in for the real deal this season. After a slow start against the 2007 Grand Final winners Moerewa Tigers, the Panthers set about putting their stamp on 2008.
I was impressed with cousins Val McDonald Jnr and Dane Guttenbeil. They are the "cement" in this revitalised club. I well recall these two as schoolboy players. With all that rugby league in the blood, some benefit would prevail and the added involvement of playing Auckland has shown out.
Dane is an out and out tackling machine who showed an extraordinary tackle count that must've had the Tigers thinking they were seeing double.
Young Michael Salase had bulked up from last season and is one chip off the old block. That would certainly have made his Dad, Ville, very proud.
My only complaint - with all those supporters - surely someone could have officiated on the scoreboard. It is a pleasant task, especially when your team is winning.
The game was played in excellent spirit and was well-controlled by referee Joe Wharewaka and the official linesmen. I say this because some club officials who have been called on for line duties leave a lot to be desired.
• The Referees Association are holding a seminar at Jubilee Park this Sunday, June 8, at 10.30am. All part-qualifications are null and void and new level two examinations will be re-sat. Mr Dane Guttenbeil, Community Programmes Manager for NZRL Sports Medicine will address the meeting, along with Ian McIntosh, CEO NZRL Referees Association.
A light lunch will be served.