Koiatu piles up the points for Bombay

By ADAM NEWMAN

Bombay outplayed last year's finalists Papakura 43-13, gaining an ideal start in the competition.

In windy conditions, Bombay's front row of Tai Vailala, Mac Peach, and Allan McLean dominated a weak Papakura tight five. McLean, in his first game for Bombay, stood out with strong scrummaging and in general play.

In the backs, Bombay looked a better-organised unit. Counties Manukau top points scorer from last season Koiatu Koiatu continued his good form, finishing with two tries and four conversions. Papakura's young openside Karl Stephens battled hard in a team that was going backwards all day.

Onewhero played smarter rugby in gusty conditions to beat Waiuku 13-7. After leading 10-0 at the break, Onewhero fought hard in the second half, playing into the wind to sneak the win.

Waiuku lock John Kennedy had a strong performance and battled hard, and promising fullback Semi Sosa stood out with good defence and strong runs from deep in his own half.

Onewhero's first five-eighths, Kelvin Soppett, controlled the game well in testing conditions.

At home, Pukekohe downed Karaka 36-3 while last year's champions, Ardmore Marist, worked hard against a new-look Manurewa team for an 18-8 win.