Rugby: Mooloo men too good for North Harbour

WAIKATO 24 NORTH HARBOUR 11

Waikato keep the Ranfurly Shield and pick up maximum NPC points after a solid 24-11 win over North Harbour in blustery conditions at Rugby Park in Hamilton today.

North Harbour drew first blood with a penalty in the eighth minute, but tries soon after from half-back Rhys Duggan and winger Bruce Reihana gave Waikato a 12-3 lead.

Harbour kept within striking distance with another penalty from Silao Leaega after Waikato left wing Damian Karauna was deemed to have deliberately knocked down the ball.

Then a sprint from speedy Harbour centre Rua Tipoki set up a corner-flag try for Matt Lord right on half-time to cut Waikato's lead to 12-11.

But, like the wind, the points went all Waikato's way in the second forty minutes, with captain Deon Muir scoring twice to ensure the bonus point and secure his side's stay at the top of the table.

Meanwhile at Carisbrook in Dunedin Northland were no match for Otago, going down 42-10.