Rugby League: New-look Pikiao launch bid

DRIVE: Ngongotaha play off against Pikiao this weekend. Pictured is Pikiao player Te Kaiaotea Tahuriorangi. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER A-180813SP5

A new-look Pikiao side will take the field against Ngongotaha this weekend during the opening round of the Bay of Plenty District Rugby League premier season.

Crosstown rivals Ngongotaha and Pikiao square off tomorrow at Puketawhero Park at 2.30pm during the first round of competition.

Pikiao coach Doug Unuwai said it should be a tough first-up derby match against Dominic James' men.

He said his team, who finished runners up last season to Pacific (Tokoroa), would include many new faces for the season opener.

"We have got a full squad for this weekend and about eight new players debuting for the first team," he said.

"Six or seven players from last year made the squad again this season and we are bringing a lot of young guys through [to the premier team] and some new faces as well."

Unuwai said the players were ready to get going this weekend following the pre-season build-up.

"They are all looking forward to it. Everyone wants to put the boots back on and have a run."

Seven teams will compete in the premier grade this year, up from five at the end of last season. Mangakino and Central (Rotorua) have both made the step up to the premier grade.

Central won the reserve grade last year and will play against Forestland (Tokoroa) at Memorial Park tomorrow. Mangakino will miss the first week with a bye.

In the other premier game, defending champions Pacific will meet Taupo in Taupo.

In the reserve grade, Pikiao will field two teams this year with Pikiao Reserves playing Turangi at Puketawhero Park and Pikiao Seniors getting the bye.

Putaruru will host Reporoa, Taupo will host Central and Tauhara host Pacific.