League: Black-and-white wash

James Ryan scored one of 13 tries for Pikiao in their home win over Mangakino. Photo/Stephen Parker

Except to call it a whitewash would be an insult to Mangakino's tenacity.

Despite falling behind early on in the game they never gave up.

Even when Pikiao continued to break through the the middle and solo efforts ran rings around Mangakino, their players continued to display a desire to get back on to the scoreboard.

Sadly it was never going to be the visitor's game.

Pikiao recorded a 70-18 win over the visitors at Puketawhero Park, a big change from the previous premier match when they drew with Ngongotaha. They remain on course for a spot in the grand final, sitting behind last year's winners Pacific Sharks.

Shayde Perham opened the scoring for the home side though Mangakino dominated the opening five minutes.

A chance to run down the wing and get the points flowing too much to pass up. Mangokino soon drew level but by half-time the points board was already looking as if a rout was on the cards.

Percy King's six-try haul told only half the story as six of Pikiao's team crossed the line and the conversion kicking role was shared among them.

Coach Doug Unuwai said he was pleased to see his team able to hold it together for the full 80 minutes.

"They played well together and gelled together as a good unit," he said.

"Mangakino gave us a god game last time but I knew it would be difficult for them here.

"It's good to see the players pick up the tempo - they never relaxed. They've got to the stage where they can play 80 minutes, which makes a difference in all games."

He said King had a good game, along with Meihana Herbert and Thomas Mahoe.

"They led the pack for us. I take my hat off to my forwards. Forwards win games for us."

Meanwhile on the number 2 field Ngongotaha beat Forestlands 54-8.

Pikiao 70 (Percy King 6, Shayde Perham 3, Scotty Evans, Keanu Taumanu, Te Kaiaotea Tahuriorangi, James Ryan tries; Rhys Hohepa 6, Tahuriorangi 2, Douglas Unuwai 2 goals) beat Mangakino 18 (Corey Cathro, Steve Mackey, Jonson Peri tries; Jordan Magee 3 goals). HT: 36-6.

Premier 1: Ngongotaha 56 (George Playle 3, Josh Taylor 3, Joseph Nuku 2, Josh Albert, Scottie Thompson, Matini Matini tries; Luke Taylor 3, Thompson 2, Harlem Leatigaga-Angell 1 goal) beat Forestlands 8 (Ratahi May, Mau Joe tries); Pacific 54 Central 28.

Premier 2: Putaruru 26 Pikiao Res 28, Pacific 44 Pikiao sen 24, Tauhara 36 Turangi 22.