Rugby: Waipu, Sharks, Kamo big movers in fight for finals

The Bayleys Premier playoff picture isn't any clearer with just three rounds to go. Photo/Getty Images

Another week of intense rugby has further muddied the playoff waters with just three weeks to go in the Bayleys Premier regular season.

Western Sharks, Waipu and Kamo all picked up vital wins as they try to secure a finals spot.

Sharks picked up a hard fought 34-17 away victory over Hikurangi.

Northland loose forward Matt Matich stood out for the visitors, crossing for another try in what has been a fruitful campaign for him.

New Zealand Under 20 champion Tamati Tua returned to the club scene at fullback but it wasn't enough to prevent the loss, which has virtually ended their playoff ambitions.

Waipu simultaneously gained on Mid Northern while distancing themselves from the chasing pack with a tight 25-22 win against the second placed side.

Waipu have now put themselves in prime position to finish at least third, which would set up a rematch with Mid Northern.

Kamo meanwhile grabbed a big victory over Hora Hora, taking out the clash 29-22.

This keeps them in the hunt as they go into their last three matches against Wellsford, Waipu and Mid Western.

Old Boys Marist looked to rectify last week's loss as they travelled to face bottom-of-the-table Mid Western.

The visitors started off strongly when promoted winger David Young dotted over in the corner.

The return of Northland halfback Matthew Markwick was a boost to the side as he added the extras from the sideline.

Two tries to outstanding loose forward Aorangi Stokes meant the score looked as if it would mimic the round one thrashing.

Mid Western crossed once in the first half to take the halftime score to 26-7.

OBM showed their versatility when Markwick departed as replacement hooker Tom Viggo, to the delight of the OBM supporters, converted his own try from right out near the sideline to secure the 54-7 victory.

Results

Premier:
Western Sharks 24 Hikurangi 12
Kamo 29 Hora Hora 22
OBM 54 Mid Western 7
Waipu 25 Mid Northern 22
Wellsford win by default

Premier Reserves:
Hikurangi 32 Western Sharks 12
Kamo win by default
OBM 52 Mid Western 10
Mid Northern 36 Waipu 24
Wellsford win by default

Blackie Memorial:
Kaihu 17 Tomerata 7
Whangaruru win by default

Bay of Islands:
Kaikohe 46 Kaeo 14
Kerikeri 46 Ohaeawai/Okaihau 19
Moerewa/UK 95 Otiria 5

Mangonui:
Awanui 103 Kaitaia 12
Panguru v Te Rarawa deferred due to flooding
Eastern bye