McAlister steers North Harbour to big win

Luke McAlister was a highly influential figure in North Harbour's victory over Waikato today. Jeff Brass/Getty Images

Young first five-eighth Luke McAlister showed his growing maturity to help guide North Harbour to a fine 40-21 NPC first division rugby win over Waikato in Albany today.

McAlister was hugely influential, steering his side around North Harbour Stadium as they secured a bonus point victory to lift themselves to fourth place on the standings.

His contribution to the outcome was 25 points from a try, four penalties and four conversions.

North Harbour were all over Waikato in the first spell as they eased out to a 20-9 lead at the break.

McAlister opened their account in the fifth minute after the Waikato defence was found wanting following a finely judged chip ahead by North Harbour captain and second five-eighth Rua Tipoki.

The home side were able to quickly recycle the ball near the line and McAlister was afforded an unimpeded run to the tryline and added the conversion for good measure.

Tipoki was again in the thick of the action five minutes later when he slipped a tackle in midfield to send centre Anthony Tuitavake in for the first of his two tries.

McAlister converted then traded penalties with David Hill up until halftime.

McAlister landed another penalty shortly after the resumption before he inspired a raid into Waikato territory with a fine run up the middle in the 47th minute.

Again North Harbour recycled the ball quickly, leading to Tipoki darting forwards off a ruck and sending Tuitavake into space for his second try.

North Harbour sealed the result eight minutes later when strong running flanker Tom Harding scored their bonus point fourth try.

Harding left the Waikato defence grasping at air in a 45m run to the line, for McAlister to convert and give North Harbour a decisive 37-9 lead.

Waikato fought back in the final quarter with tries to Liam Messam and Willie Ripia but their response came too late to influence the result.

- NZPA