Takahiwai Warriors stormed back to the top of the Rugby League Northland Premier table with a 50-20 victory over former leaders Northern Wairoa Bulls.
At home, Takahiwai were always going to be a tough nut for the Bulls to crack, but they were comprehensively outplayed on Saturday afternoon to bein a good position to be in the top two when the round robin competition finishes in two weeks.
Moerewa join Takahiwai on the top of the table with a 72-4 thrashing of Otaua at Simson Park, showing they are back to their best after some indifferent recent form.
Hikurangi Stags join the Bulls in equal second, after managing to subdue a determined Hora Hora at Hora Hora Park.
The Hokianga Pioneers continue to keep the top four honest and are one point back in fifth place, after they narrowly beat top-six contenders Muriwhenua Kuaka 20-14.
Portland Panthers had an important 28-22 win at the Otangarei Sports Park against the City Knights, to take a one point advantage in the two clubs' race for the playoff spot.
