Waikato beats Auckland to retain first division lead

5.30pm

WAIKATO 25 AUCKLAND 16

Waikato bounced back from last week's loss to Otago to beat Auckland in today's feature first division NPC rugby match in Hamilton.

Though both teams scored two tries each, David Hill's five penalty goals kept Waikato ahead in a game they dominated through the efficient work of their loose forwards -- captain Deon Muir, Jono Gibbes and Marty Holah.

Centre Regan King, the find of the season for the NPC leaders, opened the scoring in the fifth minute and two penalties by Hill had Waikato leading 11-0 before Auckland fullback Carlos Spencer put his team on the scoreboard.

Spencer's two penalties were followed by another successful shot at goal by Hill, which allowed Waikato to turn around 14-6 ahead.

Hill added his fourth goal before Auckland winger Iliesa Tanivula scored a try but a comeback by the visitors was dashed by Hill's fifth penalty.

A Bruce Reihana try six minutes from the end was Waikato's final scoring act but it was enough to ensure them their lead in the first division, even though replacement Auckland back Brent Ward crossed for a try to cut the scoring margin.

Waikato 25 (Regan King, Bruce Reihana tries; David Hill 5 pen)

Auckland 16 (Iliesa Tanivula, Brent Ward tries; Carlos Spencer 2 pen)

Halftime: 14-6.

- NZPA