Tight contest in Northland's Super Six Basketball

Round three of Northland's Super Six Basketball competition saw some tight contests.

In a catch-up game from the first round on Friday, competition newcomers Whangaruru showed their ever-increasing strength in the league by defeating last year's premiers Raumanga Royals, 77-54.

Caleb Henare top-scored for Whangaruru with 21 points, while Corey Te Tai shot 16 for the Royals. Henare backed up his scoring effort on Saturday, when his side beat Portland Blazers 76-65 in their double-header.

Harlyn Clunie was best shooter for Portland, with 18 points.

City Hawks and Maunu Lights also had a close battle, with the Hawks hanging on to edge our Maunu 82-79.

Kane Rudolph was in dominant form , shooting 31 for the Hawks, while Justin Friedrich nearly matched Rudolph's effort with 29 points.

Raumanga also backed up to play Kaikohe Cougars, and this time came away with a victory, winning 77-69.

Te Tai was once again top-scorer for the Royals, landing 20 points, while Kaikohe's Atama O'Donnell was back to his best form, shooting 33 points.