BOPRU - Club Rugby News

Te Puke High Performance Training Programme

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:13:28 +0100

THEY may not see the benefits this season, but an innovative approach from Te Puke Sports should bolster the town's rugby talent in the future.

The club has just finished running a 12-week high performance training programme, aimed at players aged 13-18.
The 35-strong squad spent the summer training with past and present Steamers like Matt Wallis, Solomon King, Andy Miller and Rameka Poihipi, mixing their rugby skills work with boxing and Pilates.

"It was definitely a first-year experience, because there were a lot of things we intended to do but never got around to because we underestimated how much time we had to put into the basics,'' coaching director Craig Jeffries said. Jeffries and club stalwart Scott Cameron ran the programme after sensing a need for club's to be more proactive in the community.

``One of the main things I was strong on was that it wasn't to be exclusive to Te Puke Sports players _ I wanted it to be available to anyone, whether they've played for Eastern Districts all their life or another club like Rangiuru,'' Jeffries said.

``I've coached a lot of these boys up through the grades and I see them slipping behind, unless they're in a really elite team in a good culture like Tauranga Boys' College have got.
``There's some outstanding talent and they could have outstanding futures as long as they've got something to motivate them.''
Players were also put through their paces by Steamers fitness trainer Murray Peterson, while their boxing session was run by Tauranga coach Hemi Niha.
Cameron and Jeffries will monitor the squad's progress throughout the year, and hope to make it a yearly fixture.

``The players just got better and better, and they really bonded, which was impressive considering they were training their guts out with the knowledge there was no game to play on Saturday.''

For the first time in recent memory, a Baywide under-19 competition kicks off tomorrow. Thames Valley side Hauraki North will join Te Puna, Greerton Marist, Taneatua and Opotiki. Tomorrow the teams will gather at Greerton to play a one-day tournament.

Te Puke, meanwhile, are away to Rotoiti, with both teams coming off first-up wins.
The only Western Bay home game has a tinge of controversy about it, with Te Puna forced to play their fixture against Opotiki at Greerton Marist. Te Puna are being punished for indiscretions by their fans last year, by forfeiting their first home game of the season.

Te Teko host Tauranga Sports, Mount Maunganui travel to Whakarewarewa, Whakatane Marist play Rangataua at home and Waikite and Kahukura play at Bellvue Rd, Rotorua.

Baywide Teams Settle For the Long Haul

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:16:05 +0100

Baywide Round 2 Preview With Baywide rugby teams having the jitters of the opening day of the season tucked away – the teams will settle down, to head along the long road to the championship titles, in August
This Saturday (5 April 2008) sees the future of Bay of Plenty rugby take to the fields, with the start of the Colts competition. Last season Rotoiti prevailed over Mount Maunganui in the Baywide Colts Final. Reports received this year, indicate plenty of genuine contenders, who wish to wear the crown of Baywide age group champions.
For the first time for a number of seasons a Baywide Under 19 competition will also take place this year. Thames Valley side Hauraki North will join Te Puna, Greerton Marist, Taneatua and Opotiki. This Saturday the five teams will gather at Greerton to participate in a one-day tournament. In section one, Whakarewarewa who were narrowly beaten by Tauranga Sports in the opening round, will have to face another Western Bay challenge this weekend. 2005 Baywide champions Mount Maunganui, had to overcome a determined first half assault from Kahukura last weekend, before powering away to win 48-7.
The standout performance in the match was provided by flying Mount winger Zane Butler - who scored five tries in the encounter. This weekend’s inter-city clash could go down to the wire with the victor sneaking home by a narrow margin.
Defending Baywide premier champions Tauranga Sports, hit the road for the first time this season, when they travel to the Eastern Bay to meet Te Teko. A trio of eager loose forwards was amongst the keys to success for Tauranga Sports last weekend.
One team that punched above its weight last season was Te Teko. While narrowly beaten by newly promoted Opotiki last weekend, the side is always hard to dislodge at home on Dunderdale Park.
In other top echelon encounters Rotoiti and Te Puke will resume their battles of recent years at Emery Park. Rangataua should be too classy for Whakatane Marist, Waikite should get past Kahukura with Opotiki likely to face a real test when they meet Te Puna.
The clash of section two should be the match-up between Rangiuru and Kawerau at Jamieson Park in Te Puke. Another key match will be game between Taneatua and Ngongotaha to be played in the Eastern Bay.
BOPRU Draws 5 April 2008Section One (All games 2.45pm) Waikite v Kahukura, Bellvue Road; Rotoiti v Te Puke Sports, Emery Park; Whakarewarewa v Mount Maunganui, Puarenga Park; Whakatane Marist v Rangataua, Rugby Park; Te Teko v Tauranga Sports, Dunderdale Park; Te Puna v Opotiki, Greerton Park.
Section Two (All games 2.45pm) Reporoa v Greerton Marist, Reporoa; Marist St Michaels, Marist Park; Paroa v Arataki, Lawson Park; Judea v Poroporo, Maharaia Winiata Park; Rangiuru v Kawerau, Jamieson Oval; Taneatua v Ngongotaha, Taneatua Domain.
Colts (All games 1pm) Rotoiti v Te Puke Sports, Emery Park; Waikite v Kahukura, Bellvue Road; Whakarewarewa v Mount Maunganui, Puarenga Park; Whakatane Marist v Rangataua, Rugby Park; Te Teko v Tauranga Sports, Dunderdale Park; Arataki v Te Puna, Grenada Park; Ngongotaha v Greerton Marist, Ngongotaha Domain.

Secondary School 7's Tournament

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:16:45 +0100

Secondary school rugby in the Bay has commenced and is oozing with potential. Mount College hosted the BOP sevens tournament where 22 teams battled for the right to be named Bay Champs. On display were boys and girls from 1st XV through to U14.

The scene was set right from the start with perfect weather for rugby, fit eager players eager to prove a point on the field, background music to add to the atmosphere, and plenty of supporters added to the buzz in the air as the day unfolded.

What better way to introduce the U14s into secondary school rugby than a feast of games, which were dominated by Opotiki and Rotorua Boys with Rotorua Boys taking out this division.

On the next field were the future of the 1st XVs, where the U15s displayed determination and finesse and were a force to be reckoned with. Once again, Rotorua Boys took out this division schooling Whakatane High in a lesson on how to play sevens rugby in the final.

In the girls division they put on a spectacle of big hits and slick balls skills which was dominated by Opotiki College. Opotiki College taking out the final against Whakatane High School in a convincing manner.

The highlight of the day was the grand final, which wrapped up the day perfectly in a fierce battle between Western Heights High School and Tauranga Boys College. The game could have gone either way with Tauranga Boys rising to be the tournament champions.

Baywide Club Rugby

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:18:36 +0100

It took a full 80 minutes but the spectre of Toby Arnold was back to haunt Whakarewarewa in the first round of Baywide club rugby on Saturday.

Arnold, who scored two tries in Tauranga Sports' epic 44-19 championship win over Whakarewarewa last year, nailed a tricky 30m penalty in the final second of Saturday's match to snatch a 23-20 victory.
The lithe first-five, who broke into the Steamers on the back of his club form at fullback last year, minutes earlier missed two potentially match-winning shots at goal, while his Whakarewarewa counterpart Kelly Haimona could only convert two of his seven shots. There was plenty of early season dross in the encounter, but enough to show the two sides will be in the thick of things when the championship semifinals loom.
Whakarewarewa, who won 26 consecutive games before their Baywide final calamity, have some handy new recruits still to pull on the red and black jersey, including Steamers midfielder Wayne Hughson, former Kahukura point-scoring machine James Tuapawa, and former Rotorua Boys High lock Craig McFadyen.

Tauranga Sports still have effervescent utility Michael George and Steamers frontrowers James McGougan and Marcel Cummings-Toone to come back.
They also boast one of the youngest and classiest loose-forward trios in the Bay. At 20, openside Bruce Olsen is the senior partner, even though No 8 Luke Braid has a grizzled, 38-year-old rugby brain tucked inside his 19-year-old head.

The revelation at Tauranga Domain on Saturday, however, was 18-year-old blindside Hohepa Goebel, an apprentice carpet-layer who was playing first XV rugby for Tauranga Boys' College last season.
Goebel had a dazzling debut, playing large parts in all three Tauranga tries, as the home side fought back from 20-8 down with 17mins left to firstly draw level, then take the points with Arnold's late heroics.
The second try show-cased Braid's natural vision, when he switched play on a whim, Arnold and second-five Gareth Brown put Goebel through a gap and the flanker expertly drew the defence to send Matt Hodson in under the posts.

Tauranga's loosies ensured Whakarewarewa's pack was starved of ball, though they counter-attacked well and scored three good tries of their own, to hooker Trent Sweeney, fullback Trent Vatselias and second-five Cory Aporo.

There's a flimsy air about the red and black forwards, which coach Clayton McMillan put down to early season antipathy. `It was a pretty ugly game really and we were lucky if it got out to the centres or wings more than half a dozen times,'' McMillan said.

Besides Goebel, the other home player to impress was lock Culum Retallick, much maligned through the Steamers season last year.

The big former Cantabrian has put in some hefty off-season work, having his best game for the club with aerial supremacy in the lineouts and some handy bursts around the field.
Even without experienced trio Dave Gorrie, Rob Moon and Kyle O'Brien, the defending champions' depth will be too much for most teams they face this season.

In other matches, Mount wing Zane Butler had another day to remember at Blake Park, running in five tries against Kahukura. Butler, who also scored three tries on debut in the season opener against Arataki last year, helped Mount to a 48-7 win over Kahukura.

Rangataua emerged with a thrilling 22-17 over Te Puna at Te Ariki Park, while Te Puke Sports repelled Whakatane Marist's strong challenge, winning 32-10.

Opotiki first-five Sam Howe collected 16 points to help his side to a 26-22 win over local rivals Te Teko, while Rotoiti overcame Waikite 24-12.

100 years of Taneatua Rugby

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:34:35 +0100

Taneatua’s not what you would describe as Tourist Town, Aotearoa. In fact, its very presence in the Eastern Bay of Plenty isn’t even acknowledged by Transit New Zealand’s signage division until the town itself has come into view across a scruffy flannel of farmland that even the local sheep seem to have turned their daggy backsides on.
Taneatua, 1km, the sign proclaims. It’s a genuine afterthought. Long gone, it would seem, are the days of the Taneatua Express (twice a week from Auckland). Roger Douglas put paid to that when he blindsided his own Labour Government and cajoled them into selling off the railways. Until then Taneatua at least had the distinction of being the end of the line. Now, unfortunately, that phrase is employed purely as metaphor.

The locals though - those raised here on the edge of Tuhoe country, in the gateway to the Ureweras - like to recall a time when Taneatua thrived. It may be an optimistic description applicable only through the lens of time and decline, but nevertheless, they’re proud of their town in Taneatua, and they’re just as proud of their rugby club.
And so they should be.
On Easter Weekend the Taneatua Rugby Club celebrated 100 years, and I was privileged to be there to enjoy a day of festivities, fables and folklore in this wonderful, if a tad forgotten, little town.On Good Friday, I had been in Christchurch for the Super 14 clash between the Crusaders and the Waratahs, standing on the sideline watching names like Carter, McCaw, Waugh, and Tuqiri. On Saturday I stood on the sideline at Taneatua Domain watching the local seniors take on Ruatoki. Both experiences proved equally as enjoyable.
In Christchurch, some of the most recognisable players in the world were on display. In Taneatua, you’d be lucky to find a player recognised outside his home valley. However, it certainly didn’t matter to the fans sitting on bonnets, under sun umbrellas, or on couches brought to the ground from the farm shed. These were their boys, and they loved watching them play.
A few weeks ago I received a copy of the NZRU’s three-year Community Rugby Plan. Club development is priority 3, and this is the introduction:“Club Rugby is part of the fabric of New Zealand society. Every Saturday, family members and loyal supporters gather on the sidelines to cheer players of all levels. After the final whistle, players and supporters crowd into clubrooms to socialise and swap stories of the battles just fought or witnessed. These activities and rituals are a vital part of our communities.”
A hot and dusty Saturday in Taneatua brought those words to life.
Parking was no problem – you just found a spot on the sideline and drove on up; there were no hot dog vendors and beer tents – you grabbed a big bot of Waikato Draught from the clubroom bar and a feed of corn beef, ham and mutton with buttered bread, salad and peas from the ladies in the kitchen; there was no pre-match entertainment, or other such distraction (unless you count conversation and a laugh with your mates as build-up).

The players arrived in their friends’ cars, finished their durries, threw on their club guernsey and ran onto the paddock.
On the field the referee laughed with the players, and let the game flow. Every single tackle resonated around the domain and every hard landing was accompanied by a rising cloud of dust from the rock hard turf. The sun was unrelenting, as was the physicality of the match. There were great hits and lots of huffing and puffing. A guy drove his bus over the dead ball line and pulled out a deck chair. He obviously was rather keen to get in on the action.
You could smell manuka oil and late summer pollen, and a waft of cheap liniment. Picnic blankets adorned the domain, and kids ran around the number two field with a ball and beat each other up. Young mums pushed younger kids around in hand-me-down prams. Old diggers huddled about in groups commenting on the current crop of seniors and the fact the club once again boasted an under-19 team. The ladies kept on cooking in the kitchen.
After the match the boys hit the showers (the ablutions used to consist of a trough, I was reliably informed by Brother Symans) and made their way into the club house. The backs were kicked out of the corner of the bar – only the tight five get to stand there. Other players sat down together and had a beer with their friends and family, and even the referee made a speech.
That night 320 former players and club members were attending a gala dinner in a massive marquee set up outside the club. They had come back to this little corner of the Bay from as far away as the UK and the USA. They had come back because each and every one of them had fond memories of being involved with a little country club that provides a jaded town with its heart and soul.
There are plenty of people out there who are convinced rugby’s going to hell in a handcart at the moment and there’s no shortage of constructive advice for the NZRU.

Tony Veitch even suggested today on his breakfast radio show that we get rid of the Highlanders, which just shows the standard of debate.
But the great thing is this: when you tire of the marketing, the promotion, the bright lights, big city footy, the stadium food, the security, the pre-match entertainment, the new rules, the end of cover defence, the player exodus, the scrum resets, the early start to the Rebel Sport Super 14, the lack of covered seats in the middle of winter, the atrocious price of a pie, the atrocious price of a ticket, the fact we can’t keep 20 professional rugby teams afloat, the blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, ad infinitum, ad nauseam, when you get tired of all that, put down your newspaper, turn off your talkback, pack up the kids and the thermos and a picnic lunch, and go back to your rugby club for an afternoon. You might just remember – like I did on Saturday - why you fell in love with this game in the first place. So here’s to the town of Taneatua.

The train may have stopped coming, but the rugby never died.

Story courtesy of www.skysport.co.nz

Close Encounter at the Tauranga Domain

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:34:56 +0100

Baywide Round 1 Review : Tauranga Sports and Whakarewarewa, who fought out last seasons Baywide Premier Final, laid down the gauntlet to the other championship contenders, on the opening day of the 2008 season.
Whaka made the early running in the encounter at the Tauranga Domain to lead 10-3 at the break. In the second spell the Tauranga forward pack knuckled down and started to take the ascendancy in the match.
A third try to the home team leveled the score at 20 all after the conversion attempt hit the posts. With clock ticking down Toby Arnold slotted a penalty to give Tauranga Sports a narrow 23-20 victory - in a match where both sides made solid contributions to the encounter. Mount Maunganui winger Zane Butler, had a game he wont forget in a long time, as he ran in five tries as his team defeated Kahukura 48-7 at Blake Park. Three first half tries to the flying Mount winger saw the home side holding a 25 nil advantage at half time.
Touchdowns to Richie Manu and Dave Afu with to further tries to Butler saw the Mount finish with a 48-7 victory. Charles Hubbard crossed for Kahukura with Terry Vaipo kicking the conversion.
The expected game of attrition between Rangataua and Te Puna lived up expectations, with Rangataua grabbing the thriller 22-17 at Te Ariki Park. While Rangataua ran in three tries to two - Te Puna were always in contention in a game that could have gone either way.
Perennial Baywide semi-finalists Te Puke Sports made their usual good start to the season with a comfortable 32-10 victory over Whakatane Marist.

The Eastern Bay local derby between Te Teko and Opotiki was another close encounter before Opotiki wrapped up the match 26-22. At Emery Park Rotoiti showed that they would again be a force to be reckoned with this season when they dispatched Waikite 24-12.
Bay of Plenty Rugby Baywide Results 29 March 2008Section One: Tauranga Sports 23 (Bruce Olsen, Mike Rogers, Matt Hodson tries; Toby Arnold 2 pens con) Whakarewarewa 20 (Trent Sweeney, Trent Vatselias, Cory Aporo tries; Kelly Haimona con pen). HT: 3-10. Rangataua 22 (Anaru Taute, Jason Hona, Barry Parkinson tries, Doug Joseph pen & con, Glen Strang con) Te Puna 17 (John Paeranga, Jeremy Bidois tries; Quinton Gardiner 2 cons & pen) Mount Maunganui 48 (Zane Butler (5) Richard Manu, Dave Afu tries; 5 cons & pen) Kahukura 7 (Charles Hubbard try; Terry Vaipo con) Te Puke Sports 32 (Jimi Roberts (2) Brett McLeod, Jason Kovwenhoven tries; McLeod 3 con & 2 pens) Whakatane Marist 10 (try; Craig Edwards con & pen) Opotiki 26 (Rhys Simpson 2 tries; Sam Howe 2 con, 3 pen & dg) Te Teko 22 (Dan Godbold, Anthony Studer, Ryan Hahipene tries; Hahipene 2 pens & con)Rotoiti 24 Waikite 12
Section Two:
Rangiuru 25 Ngongotaha 20, Greerton Marist 20 Arataki 14, Judea 13 Papamoa 7, Kawerau 15 Paroa 7, Taneatua 40 Poroporo 12, Reporoa 16 Marist St Michaels 10.

Bay of Plenty Maori Selected

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:40:25 +0100

'Bay of Plenty Maori selected for Northern Region Maori Squads'
A number of BOPRU (Te Waiariki) players performed extremely well in the annual Te Hiku O Te Ika Maori tournament with twelve Bay of Plenty Senior players and two colts players being named in Norther Region Maori squads.

The Bay of Plenty Maori Senior Men's team lost a close contest to Auckland Maori 25 - 10 in the final of the hugely popular tournament held at Ardmore Marist on Friday 29 February and Saturday 1 March.

Auckland, Northland, North Harbour, Counties Manukau, Waikato and Bay of Plenty competed in the three competition divisions: Senion Mens (Tane), Womens (Wahine) and Colts (Rangatahi).

This year saw the introduction of the 'Pat Walsh Player of the Tournament Award' that went to Bay of Plenty Maori flanker Dallas Cole, a former BOP Development player.

The Northern Region teams will play a fixture against Central Zone Maori, in what will be an important match up for the players involved. This will provide a final opportunity to impress NZRU Maori coach Donny Stevenson.

Norther Region Colts Squad:Haimona Brown
Curtis Van der Heyden

Norther Region Senior Mens Squad:James McGougan
Daniel Schuster
JP Pareanga
Aidan Kuka
Dallas Cole (Player of the Tournament)
Colin Bourke
Glen Martin
Marty Bourke
Corey Aporo
Lance MacDonald
Quentin Gardner
Jason Hona
Not considered because of injury: Rena Schuster

For more information, please contact:
Mike Rogers
Rugby Development Manager
E: mike@boprugby.co.nz
M: 0294 784 292

New Sponsor Agreements for BOP Rugby

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:40:52 +0100

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union are pleased to announce several new sponsorship agreements for 2008.

Rotorua Central Mall, who began sponsoring BOPRU in 2007, has extended their sponsorship contract for a further term. John Powell who oversaw the contract negotiations for Rotorua Central Mall said, "The Board of Pukeroa Oruawhata Holdings Ltd is proud to continue its support and association with BOPRU and the Steamers through renewed 'Rotorua Central Mall' sponsorship."

"It seems more and more Bay businesses are opening their doors at the prospect of being part of the team that rebuilds BOPRU into that force it should be." Commented BOPRU CEO Stuart Harvey on new sponsorhip acquisitions for Bay of Plenty Rugby.

Tauranga based Law firm Cooney Lees Morgan were eager to join the BOPRU Back of Jersey sponsorship ranks with the sponsoring of Steamers #8 Jersey for the coming 2008 Air New Zealand Cup season. When quizzed about their sponsorship Practice Manager Christopher Mayes has the following to say; "Cooney Lees Morgan is pleased to sponsor the BOPRU and rugby in the Bay. We are keen to see the Steamers return to the days when they held the shield and made the NPC semi finals. As supporters of the community we have got along side the BOPRU to show our support. C'MON THE BAY!"

Another local businessman, Tony Smith from Farmer Jones Meat Market, was very upbeat about sponsoring the Steamers halfback jersey saying "For the past few years Farmer Jones has made a concerted effort to support many sporting and charity activities including Cancer Society and Surf Life Saving. So when approached to provide sponsorship to the Steamers we were immediately excited at the prospect. We look forward to a long and fruitful relationship wiht rugby and its supporters in the Bay of Plenty."

For further information please contact:
Dirk Merwe
Commercial Manager
Mobile: 021 995 133
DDI: 07 927 1317

Email: dirk@boprugby.co.nz

Hong Kong to host historic Bledisloe Cup match

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:41:35 +0100

Hong Kong will host one of the world rugby's great contests in November when the All Blacks and Australia battle for the Bledisloe Cup at the Hong Kong Stadium.

The Australian and New Zealand Rugby Unions today confirmed that they have accepted an invitation from the Hong Kong Rugby Football Union to play a match in Hong Kong which will see the Bledisloe Cup series extend to Asia this year. The match will be played on Saturday, November 1, kicking off at 4.30pm HKT (7.30pm AEDT; 9.30pm NZT).

The Bledisloe Cup is one of the world sport's most storied trophies, with a history that dates back to 1931, and represents the pinnacle of trans-Tasman sporting supremacy says NZRU CEO Steve Tew.

"Together with our partner rugby unions, we are excited to accept Hong Kong's invitation to stage the first rugby international in Asia to feature two of teh world's top teams. The match will make history and help promote rugby in a part of the world where it is developing quickly. We know both the All Blacks and the Wallabies have many fans in Asia and it is fantastic to be able to bring the game to them and to local rugby enthusiasts."

With the addition of the Hong Kong match, the Bledisloe Cup will be decided over four Tests in 2008. Australia and New Zealand are scheduled to meet three times as part of the Tri Nations Series and then contest the fourth and final match in Hong Kong. It is the first time the two teams have played each other outside of either Australia or New Zealand except for at Rugby World Cup, and the first time this important trophy has been up for grabs outside of Australia and New Zealand.
"Australia and New Zealand are great sporting rivals and the Bledisloe Cup is always fiercely contested," said ARU Chief Executive and Managing Director John O'Neill. "November's match will be no different. It promises to be a full-blooded encounter between two of the sport's heavyweights. This is not an exhibition game."

The Hong Kong Rugby Union will host the match and will use the occasion to promote rugby with youth and club tournaments in the week leading up to the match and potentially a curtain raiser between Hong Kong and China on the day of the match.

"Hong Kong's status as a rugby destination continues to grow," said HKRFU Executive Director Allan Payne. "Teams and fans always enjoy the sevens, but international 15 aside rugby is another remarkable and distinct rugby experience. With millions watching on television around the world this is rugby at its best and a real showcase for Hong Kong."

"The concept of the match has attracted a lot of interest since it was first mentioned last year," said Mr Payne.

"It is our aim to host events of this calibre on an annual basis," he said. "There is certainly a lot of interest in seeing rugby at this level being played in the region."

For further information please contact:

Mr Warrick Dent
Commercial Manager
Hong Kong Rugby Football Union
Tel +852-2504-8314
Mob +852-9272-0357
Email: warrick.dent@hkrugby.com

Ms Judy Ngao
Communications Manager
Hong Kong Rugby Football Union
Tel +852-2504-8309
Mob +852-6220-0227
Email: judy.ngao@hkrugby.com

Brian Finn
Communications Manager
New Zealand Rugby Union
Tel: 04 494 0765
Mob: 027 229 5380
Email: brian.finn@nzrugby.co.nz

Peter Jenkins
Head of Media & Communications
Australian Rugby Union
Tel: +61 2 8005 5620
Mob: +61 417 232 698
Email: peter.jenkins@rugby.com.au

New Zealand Sevens squad prepares for Hong Kong

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:41:59 +0100

The New Zealand Sevens team is preparing for the next two rounds of the IRB Sevens Series - with a 15-strong squad holding the first of two training camps in the Bay of Plenty town of Ohope this week.

Following tournament wins in Dubai, George, Wellington and San Diego, New Zealand leads the IRB Sevens Series on 80 points, ahead of South Africa (48 points), Fiji (44 points), and Samoa (38 points). The next two IRB Sevens tournaments are in Hong Kong from 28-30 March and Adelaide from 5-6 April.

The Ohope camp is from Friday 29 February to Monday 3rd March. As part of the team's preparations, several of the current squad members will also play in the Taneatua Sevens tournament in Whakatane on 1st March.

New Zealand Sevens coach Gordon Tietjens said it was important for the players to have regular game time between tournaments. "There is a long break between San Diego and Hong Kong tournaments and while training camps provide additional fitness and conditioning, it is still important that players remain 'game sharp'. This tournament is an opportunity for these players to do just that," Tietjens said.

The Ohope camp marks the return to the squad of Afeleke Pelenise, who missed the first four IRB Sevens Series tournaments of the new season because of a knee injury.

The second training camp is scheduled for Mount Maunganui from 18-21 March when the squad of 12 for the Hong Kong and Adelaide tournaments will be named.

New Zealand Sevens camp squad named:Tomasi Cama (Manawatu), Edwin Cocker (Auckland), Israel Dagg (Hawke's Bay), Nigel Hunt (Wellington), Tafai Ioasa (Hawke's Bay), Solomon King (Bay of Plenty), Zar Lawrence (North Harbour), Kendrick Lynn (Southland), Ben Nowell (Canterbury), Afeleke Pelenise (Tasman), Lote Raikabula (Manawatu), Rene Ranger (Northland), Chad Tuoro (Counties Manukau), Nafi Tuitavake (North Harbour) and Victor Vito (Wellington).

Note: DJ Forbes and Steven Yates will not attend the camp in Ohope because they are both getting married.

For further information, please contact:
Joslyn Titus
NZRU Communications Advisor
P: 04 494 0967
M: 027 227 1750
E: joslyn.titus@nzrugby.co.nz

Release 2008 - conclusion of AGM

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:42:29 +0100

Yesterday afternoon saw BOPRU annual general meeting come to a conclusion and despite announcing a large financial loss many positives came out of yesterdays AGM. "The turn out at Whakarewarewa Club rooms yesterday was quite good and the collective support of where the union is at and where it needs to be was also very encouraging," said Stuart Harvey, CEO and Chairman. "There was a lot of speculation but once the facts were presented it became obvious to all that for the union to be where it needs to be, it will only get there through working together".

Local Tauranga businessman Peter Williams is the board's only new face, replacing long serving baord member Paul Singh. Peter Williams has been involved in property development for several years and brings with him a passion for rugby and the commercial acumen needed to take BOPRU forward.

New Zealand Rugby Union on Friday committed to assisting BOPRU. Many avenues for assistance exist including advancing annual payments, which would provide BOPRU the cash flow needed to trade out of its current financial position. NZRU could also consider appointing a Statutory Manager however a clear plan for moving forward will only be formulated laer this week, once Andrew Steele from NZRU has reviewed the overall BOPRU situation.

BOPRU will hold the next board meeting ASAP, it is anticipated to be held later this week once NZRU has all of the information required and suggestions for moving forward are tabled.

BOPRU will endeavour to keep its sponsors, supporters and general public as up to date as possible with any new outcomes happening over the next few weeks.

For more information please contact Stuart Harvey, CEO on:

E: stuart@boprugby.co.nz

M: 0274 780 970

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:42:55 +0100

Despite the woes Bay of Plenty Rugby Union have experienced over the past week; due to not receiving sponsorship payments from principal sponsor Blue Chip, support for the Steamers from the local business community has been overwhelming.

"We have had many phone calls from existing sponsors, season ticket holders and rugby enthusiasts delcaring their unwavering support." said Dirk Merwe, Commercial Manager for BOPRU. "We've lost one sponsor but have acquired two new ones and interest in sponsoring the BOPRU is growing."

Holland Beckett announced their newly found Official Steamers Sponsors status at a recent client function and had the following to say "We all remember the heady year of 2004 when the Steamers won the shield and made the semi's - the community support was fantastic but its in times of adversity that the public and local businesses really need to show their support." said Bill Holland from legal firm Holland Beckett (Hobec) "and that is why Holland Beckett are pleased to be aligned with the Steamers as an official sponsor for the coming Air New Zealand Cup season, and we encourage other businesses to do the same."

Other businesses have doen the same including Katikati based business Kiwi Mowers who will have their logo on the back of the Steamers playing shorts from the next 3 seasons.
"During 2008 Kiwi Mowers Ltd will celebrate 25 years manufacturing the Kingcat ride on products in the Bay of Plenty. Kiwi Mowers have a strong following in the Bay and are proud to be local, so it seemed a natural fit this week to stand beside the BOPRU and the Steamers. Kiwi Mowers have chosen to sponsor the Steamers as an investment in local legends and to reiterate our belief in the province." said Allan Smyth, Kiwi Mowers Managing Director.

BOPRU is committed to not only finding a new principle sponsor but also finding sponsorship solutions to local enterprises wishing to join the BOPRU fraternity.

For more information, please contact Dirk Merwe, Commercial Manager at dirk@boprugby.co.nz or phone 021 995 133.

AGM 2008 Held 24 February 2008

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:43:21 +0100

Three unpredictable factors played a big hand in the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union presenting a $759,058.00 loss to stakeholders, at the Annual General Meeting held on Sunday 24th February 2008.

The well-documented problems, of the Union major sponsor Blue Chip (who made just one sponsorship payment during the financial year) contributed to a third of the loss. While every endeavour will be taken to recover some compensation from Blue Chip, the Union had no option but to show the outstanding amount in the balance sheet.

Along with most of the rugby unions in the country, the Bay Union took a big hit in the gate takings, from the Air New Zealand Cup matches played at home. A sixty five per cent drop in gate takings had a big impact on the Unions finances.
BOPRU President Bruce Dodge summed up the situation in his report to the AGM. "The future of unions such as Bay of Plenty is squarely in the hands of the New Zealand Rugby Union". "By increasing the number of teams in the Air New Zealand Cup, from ten to fourteen in 2006, they stretched the financial resources of most unions to breaking point".

An increase of ninety five thousand dollars, in Steamers player payments, was brought about because of the serious injury toll to players. The increase in player payments was necessitated by the need to field 39 players during the season.

Funding channelled into amateur rugby during the season was an investment in the future grass roots game. The climax of the club rugby season, was fought out at the Rotorua International Stadium during August, wiht the staging of six Baywide finals, in front of a large crowd.

A significant achievement for Bay rugby during the last twelve months has been a big increase in player participation. During the last two years, player numbers have increased by nearly twenty percent, while the national average has plummeted four per cent.

Another investment in the future of the game in the Bay of Plenty was the representative program (below the Steamers). Two Northern Regional titles, and a clean sweep of Waikato age group sides, bear testament to the talent reservoir in the Bay.

The newly elected Board of the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union - will face a myriad of challenges, to get the Union financial situation brought back on track. It is certain, that the new Board will take a close look at the Union expenses, with each financial sector closely scrutinised.

A marketing push to get new local sponsors on Board has already paid dividends, with several commercial businesses having signed their commitment, to supporting the Bay Union. The marketing effort will continue wiht Steamers Coach Kevin Schuler getting out to press the flesh with potential sponsors.

For more information please contact Stuart Harvey, CEO at:
E: stuart@boprugby.co.nz
M: 0274 780 970

Rugby World Cup 2011

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:43:45 +0100

Urgency, volunteers and coordination key learnings from RWC 2007 organisation RNZ 2011 Ltd, France 2007 and RWCL conclude debrief meetings Timelines, volunteers and clear definition of roles and responsibilities have emerged as key learnings for Rugby World Cup (RWC) 2011 organisers, following a week of detailed reviews, briefings and discussions with the organisers of the highly successful Rugby World Cup 2007 Tournament.

Five senior executives of the France 2007 Organising Committee, led by CEO Etienne Thobois, and the senior management team of the RWC rightsholder, Rugby World Cup Limited (RWCL), have been in New Zealand this week briefing the New Zealand tournament-delivery company, Rugby New Zealand 2011 (RNZ) Ltd, and other stakeholders.

It is the first time in Rugby World Cup history that the bid process timeline has allowed for one organising committee, in combination with RWCL, to brief the organisers of the next tournament and download all of the key planning and learnings from the event.

RNZ 2011 Chief Executive Martin Snedden said the debrief sessions were of immense value to New Zealand’s planning and provided an "accelerated learning curve" for the 2011 Tournament. On the key learnings, Mr Snedden reiterated the major lessons learned by RNZ 2011 management and staff.

"The notion of urgency – that time is of the essence – came through clearly. In many functional areas, the French organisers highlighted that the planning and preparation cannot start early enough."

The success of the volunteer programme in France was discussed in detail. "It is clear now that for all major events, a large, capable and well-trained volunteer workforce is vital both to the operational success and to the image of the event." Mr Snedden said early clarity of roles and responsibilities right across the variety of tournament delivery agents and partners from RWCL to RNZ 2011 to host regions and venues was absolutely critical.

"We were already very fortunate in being able to have staff in operational and observational roles during RWC 2007. To be able now to add to that knowledge with detailed insights into the lessons learned from that tournament has been hugely beneficial," he said.

"Etienne and his team have been very accessible and forthcoming since the time New Zealand was selected to host RWC 2011. We are very grateful to them for all the help they have extended to us and to Rugby World Cup Limited for their assistance in ensuring that this debrief has been a constructive and meaningful review of the highs and lows of RWC 2007."

France 2007 Organising Committee CEO Etienne Thobois said he could see the value of the intensive debrief for all parties, including his team which had recently completed the official review reports on RWC 2007. "Rugby World Cup 2007 was a great event for France and a wonderful experience. It was also hugely demanding for those of us who worked on it.

To be able to reflect on all of the positive elements, which contributed to that success, as well as other areas of learning, has been gratifying – and even therapeutic for my team," he said. "I wish Martin Snedden and all of the RWC 2011 team good luck for the next Tournament."

RWCL Managing Director Mike Miller said the opportunity to have a handover briefing and achieve that transfer of knowledge from one organising committee to another was a key reason the rights for the 2011 Tournament were awarded so much earlier than for previous tournaments.

"It has been a very productive exercise for Rugby World Cup and for the RNZ 2011 team and one we hope will enhance the quality of planning and delivery for RWC 2011 and for future tournaments." ********

 About Rugby New Zealand 2011 Ltd: Rugby New Zealand (RNZ) 2011 Ltd was established in June 2006 and is the organisation responsible for the planning and delivery of Rugby World Cup (RWC) 2011 in New Zealand on behalf of its shareholders, the New Zealand Rugby Union and the New Zealand Government. RNZ 2011 Ltd is governed by a six-member Board of Directors which is chaired by current NZRU Chairman Jock Hobbs. The New Zealand Rugby Union was selected as the Host Union for RWC 2011 by the International Rugby Board Council in November 2005.

 About IRB Rugby World Cup: The IRB Rugby World Cup is the third largest sports event in the world. The inaugural tournament took place in 1987 and it is held every four years. In 2007 the sixth tournament was held in France and enjoyed a cumulative worldwide broadcast audience of more than 4 billion. For the latest on RWC 2007 visit www.rugbyworldcup.com

For further information contact: Brian Finn NZRU Communications Manager
P: 04 494 0765
M: 027 229 5380

E: brian.finn@nzrugby.co.nz

NZRU Rugby World Cup 2007 review released

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 15:58:41 +0100

Media Release -17 April 2008

NZRU Rugby World Cup 2007 review released

The independent review of the New Zealand Rugby Union’s Rugby World Cup 2007 campaign has been released.

The review, which was conducted and prepared by Auckland lawyer Mike Heron and SPARC’s Don Tricker, has been made available on the NZRU website (www.nzru.co.nz). The report can be downloaded from the Publications section of the site.

The only exclusions from the published report are those details which were considered to be commercially sensitive or confidential.

Speaking on behalf of the authors, Mike Heron said: “This review represents our analysis of the material learnings from the unsuccessful Rugby World Cup campaign. It also includes details on the process we undertook to review the campaign. We had full access to all relevant materials and appreciate the cooperation of everyone we worked with to complete this review.

“The report represents our views and findings in line with the terms of reference, thereby bringing our part of the process to an end. Accordingly, Don and I do not wish to make any further comment,” he said.

NZRU Chairman Jock Hobbs said the NZRU was grateful to the authors for their work on the review which was substantial, and also to those who contributed to the review.

Mr Hobbs, NZRU CEO Steve Tew and the All Blacks manager and coach will make further comment at a media briefing later today.

1.00 PM Media briefing – NZRU offices, Wellington

2.00 PM Media briefing via tele-conference for those media not able to attend in Wellington. Please dial: 083032 or +64 83083032. Pin: 830963#

For further information, please contact:

Brian Finn

Communications Manager

T: 04 494 0765

M: 027 229 5380

E: brian.finn@nzrugby.co.nz

Bay's Braid makes NZ side

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 16:47:05 +0100

Media Release - March 11th 2008 - Bay's Braid makes NZ side

Bay of Plenty player Luke Braid will join New Zealand’s young up-and-coming rugby talent representing their country at the inaugural IRB Junior World Championship in May after being named in the New Zealand team yesterday.

The New Zealand under-20 side replaces the national under-19 and under-21 sides following the International Rugby Board's restructure of its age grade competitions.

Luke was also a member of The NZU19 side who won the World U19 CUP in Ireland in 2007.

Luke has an impressive rugby pedigree anyone would be proud of. His father Gary played two tests for the All Blacks in the early 1980s, as well as representing Bay of Plenty. His brother Daniel has played three tests for the All Blacks and plays Super 14 rugby for the Blues.

In the lead up to the New Zealand Under 20 trial, Braid has been training with the BOPRU squad. He has achieved personal bests in the gym and field testing in the last few weeks.

Braid said “I was stoked to be selected to attend another World Championship and stressed to myself last years achievements would have no bearing on selection”. Braid continued “I can’t wait to get into the camps and then head away to Wales”

Braids selection to the National Under 20 team continues Bay of Plenty Rugby’s representation at the National level in 2008 after Daniel Ross, Chris Miller, Sam Cane, and Carl Axtens were selected in the New Zealand under-17 side earlier this year.

For more information, please contact Mike Rogers, Rugby Development Manager on mike@boprugby.co.nz or 0294 784292.

Fine Weather Should Produce Plenty of Baywide Tries

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 16:49:04 +0100

Media Release - March 10th 2008
Fine Weather Should Produce Plenty of Baywide Tries

The crisp mornings of autumn coupled with a forecast that predicts little rain - should produce conditions that ought to produce plenty of tries, in Saturdays (12 April 2008) round of the Baywide rugby competitions.

One player, who has made a real impact in the first two rounds of the section one competition, is flying Mount Maunganui winger Zane Butler. Five tries in the opening round was followed by another touch down last weekend.

A further Butler try-fest could be on offer on Saturday, when Mount Maunganui host Te Teko at Blake Park. Another in the Mount ranks to make his mark is Japanese first five Tatsuhiko Otao who looks a more than useful kicker.

While Te Teko will be seeking their first win of the season - there first two performances suggest that they will grab their share of victories. Daniel Godbold, who has relinquished the coaching reins this season, has picked up try in each of his teams outings.

Defending premier champions Tauranga Sports, have made the early running sitting astride the points ladder, with two victories and a bonus point. This weekend they host fellow Western Bay side Te Puna at the Tauranga Domain. With a win and a loss, the Te Puna unit coached by Bob Moorhead, will need to contain the lively Tauranga trio of loose forwards.

Another side to make a perfect start to the competition is Rotoiti who have posted wins over Waikite and Te Puke Sports. A visit, to Te Ariki Park in the Western Bay to face Rangataua, could see their unbeaten record under threat. Rangataua who like to spin the ball at every opportunity, will have conditions that suit their brand of rugby.

There should be a large crowd on hand at the Opotiki Reserve, to watch the Eastern Bay local derby, between the home side and Whakatane Marist. Both teams have posted a solid win apiece in the opening rounds to suggest that they could be top eight contenders.

In spite of Kahukura posting a solid win last week - Whakarewarewa should be to good for the red, white and blue brigade at Kuirau Park. Perennial semi-finalists Te Puke Sports should rebound from last Saturday’s narrow loss (to Rotoiti) when they host Waikite at Murray Salt Stadium.

For the first time for a number of seasons a Baywide Under 19 competition kicks off this Saturday.

BOPRU Draws 12 April 2008
Section One (All games 2.45pm) Te Puke Sports v Waikite, Murray Salt Stadium; Rangataua v Rotoiti, Te Ariki Park; Mount Maunganui v Te Teko, Blake Park; Opotiki v Whakatane Marist, Opotiki Reserve; Tauranga Sports v Te Puna, Tauranga Domain; Kahukura v Whakarewarewa, Kuirau Park.

Section Two (All games 2.45pm) Papamoa v Reporoa, Gordon Spratt Reserve; Greerton Marist v Paroa, Greerton Park; Poroporo v Marist St Michaels, Poroporo Park; Ngongotaha v Judea, Ngongotaha Domain; Arataki v Rangiuru, Grenada Park; Kawerau v Taneatua, Firmin Field.

Colts (All games 1pm) Te Puke Sports v Waikite, Murray Salt Stadium; Arataki v Whakatane Marist, Grenada Park; Rangataua v Rotoiti, Te Ariki Park, Mount Maunganui v Te Teko, Blake Park; Tauranga Sports v Ngongotaha, Tauranga Domain; Kahukura v Whakarewarewa, Kuirau Park; Te Puna v Greerton Marist, Maramatanga Park.

Under 19 (All games 1pm) Opotiki v Hauraki North, Opotiki Domain; Te Puna v Greerton Marist, Maramatanga Park; Taneatua the bye.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Rugby Development Manager
07 574 2037 ex 106 029 478 4292

Baywide Results Produce a Bit of Everything

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 16:51:37 +0100

Media Release - April 14 2008
Baywide Results Produce a Bit of Everything

Baywide section one rugby produced a bit of everything on Saturday (12 April 2008) – an upset result, a come from behind victory and total domination by the defending champions.

Mount Maunganui used its get out of jail card twice in the last five minutes of the game against Te Teko at Blake Park. With the clock ticking down the home side appeared headed for defeat, trailing by nine points.

A try to Simeon James, was followed by the Baywide leading try scorer Zane Butler crossing with full time showing on the clock, to give the Mount a 18-17 win. Te Teko could only stand and shake their heads about a victory that was snatched away.

The Eastern Bay local derby between Opotiki and Whakatane Marist caused a real surprise in the rugby follower’s ranks, with Opotiki over whelming Whakatane Marist 40-3. Playing with a home ground advantage, Opotiki took control early in the match, to lead by twenty-five points at the half time break.

One-way traffic was the order of the day at the Tauranga Domain - where Tauranga Sports went on a point a minute rampage against Te Puna to post an 81 nil victory. Thirteen tries to the Baywide premier champions suggests a team determined to grab back to back championship silverware.

The Tauranga forwards completely shut their opponents out of the encounter, with Tauranga having the game in the bag at the break, after posting 36 unanswered points. Todd Arnold and Luke Braid both picked up a brace of touchdowns, with Braid’s try coming with his first touch of the ball.

A battle of attrition took place at Te Ariki Park where Rotorua visitors Rotoiti just got past Rangataua 22-19. While Rotoiti registered three tries, Rangataua kicker Glen Strang kept the home side in the match, with four penalty goals.

Rotorua heavyweight Whakarewarewa posted a seven try 47-7 victory over Kahukura with Te Puke Sports strolling past Waikite 41-12.

In section two, Rangiuru have made their best start for a decade albeit in the second echelon, with a 22-13 win over fellow Western Bay side Arataki. Other teams to post victories were Papamoa, Greerton Marist, Poroporo, Ngongotaha and Kawerau.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Baywide Results 12 April 2008

Section One

Whakarewarewa 47 (Aliki Kisina, Sam Cameron, Brad Savage, Trent Vatselias, Joe Savage, Wayne Hughson, Shane Unuwai tries; Kelly Haimona 6 con) Kahukura 7 (Penalty try; Josh Rauluni con) 21-0 HT

Te Puke Sports 41 (Ross Nicolaas (3) Josh Harrison (2) Jason Kouwenhoven, Rameka Poihipi tries; Brett McLeod 3 con) Waikite 12 (Tomoana Wijohn, Joe Curtis tries; John Wiringi con) HT 29-5

Opotiki 40 (Matt Henwood, Te Rau Kurei, Sam Gaskill, Hasley Moore, Craig Steadman tries; Sam Howe 2 pen & 3con) Whakatane Marist 3 (Craig Edwards pen). HT: 30-3.

Mount Maunganui 18 (Simeon James (2) Zane Butler tries; Tatsuhiko Otao pen) Te Teko 17 (S Hape, Brad Tutua tries; Ryan Hahipene 2 con & pen).

Rotoiti 22 (Willy Saywell, Jamahl Moke-Khan, Luther Robinson tries; Whakataki Cunningham 2 con & pen) Rangataua 19 (Barry Parkinson try; Doug Joseph con, Glen Strang 4 pen). HT: 10-9.

Tauranga Sports 81 (Todd Arnold (2) Luke Braid (2) Michael George, Callum Armstrong, Josh Hall, Mike Rogers, Toby Arnold, Raymond Brown, Hohepa Goebel, Matt Hodson, Gareth Brown tries; Kelly Haimona 8 cons) Te Puna 0 – HT 36-0

Section Two: Papamoa 18 Reporoa 3, Greerton Marist 24 Paroa 10, Poroporo 20 Marist St Michaels 19, Ngongotaha 22 Judea 0, Rangiuru 22 Arataki 13, Kawerau 40 Taneatua 10.

Colts: Te Puke Sports 37 Waikite 12, Rangataua 38 Rotoiti 16, Mount Maunganui 46 Te Teko 0, Tauranga Sports 48 Ngongotaha 18, Whakarewarewa 55 Kahukura 5, Te Puna 29 Greerton Marist 18, Arataki 72 Whakatane Marist 5.

Under 19: Te Puna 12 Greerton Marist 12, Hauraki North defeated Opotiki.

For further information contact:

Mike Rogers BOPRU Rugby Development Manager

07 574 2037 ex 106 029 478 4292

Re: Resignation of Stuart Harvey

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 11:54:28 +0100

Media Release - 21st April 2008

Re: Resignation of Stuart Harvey

Stuart Harvey resigned on Friday 18th April 2008 as Chairman of Directors and Rugby Director of the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union.

The Union is appreciative of Stuarts past nine years as Director of which eight years he has been Chairman.

Without the huge burden of Chairman and Director of our Union we wish Stuart good health and well-being for the future.

Regards
Dennis Pickup
Acting Chief Executive Officer
Bay of Plenty Rugby Union.

Upsets spark club rugby

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 15:28:52 +0100

28.04.2008

What a difference a week makes.

The Baywide club rugby competition, meandering along with listless indifference seven days ago, suddenly burst into life on Saturday after a couple of big upsets.

Previously unbeaten Tauranga Sports crashed at home to Rotoiti 30-12, dropping the reigning champions to fourth on the table, while Whakatane Marist also won away from home with a gutsy 32-22 win over Mount Maunganui.

It has changed the complexion of the competition completely, with the relegation-threatened bottom four not so clearly defined and the top sides suddenly seeing chinks in Tauranga's seemingly impervious armour.

Rotoiti picked up their first bonus point in the unlikely win, but more importantly the young side gained a major shot of confidence.

"We were pretty dominant and we expected Tauranga to come out a lot stronger than they did," Rotoiti captain Glen Martin admitted.

"I don't know if they took us lightly or if we lifted dramatically but it's definitely the best performance we've put in all year."

Martin's pack _ led by rapidly improving prop Haimona Brown _ were the measure of the home side and Rena Schuster's welcome return from injury helped sooth the youthful backline nerves.

Over the bridge at Blake Park, Whakatane Marist came back from a big deficit against a Mount Maunganui side ravaged by absences.

Replacement forward Pete Love crashed over from a tap penalty with 10mins to go to give the visitors a 29-22 lead, then first-five Craig Edwards sealed the win over his old club with a handy penalty. It was a massive turnaround for the Eastern Bay side, hammered 83-10 by Tauranga a week earlier.

"We worked really hard on defence after Tauranga showed us up so much," coach Craig Sinkinson said.

"We understood they were struggling up front and that's where we planned to attack them but it took a lot to come back from three tries to one down. I'm really happy with that."

Mount wing Zane Butler managed to keep his outstanding season record going _ he's scored in every game on his way to nine tries from just five matches, easily leading the competition from Tauranga flanker Bruce Olsen.

Whakarewarewa's Kelly Haimona, collected a 27-point haul against Te Teko.

The 2007 Steamers pivot looked sharp in scoring two tries, converting seven of Whakarewarewa's eight tries and adding a penalty in their 57-22 win.

It took him to 65 points for the season, with his uncle Eruera Haimona on 69 and Te Puke's Brett McLeod on 67 after collecting 22 points in the identical 57-22 win over Opotiki on Friday. Wing Alan Jarvis-Cook crossed three times in the win, which lifted Te Puke into second equal with Whakarewarewa on the table.

Rangataua moved clear of the danger zone with a 33-5 win over struggling Waikite, while Kahukura ground out a 17-6 win over Te Puna.

Courtesy of Bay of Plenty Times

4 Player Signings Announced

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 09:12:15 +0100

The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union is pleased to announce the signing of Simms Davison, Mike Delany, Colin Bourke and Tanerau Latimer.

All four players were key contributors to the Steamers in 2007 and bring over 150 games of experience to the Steamers team.

Since 2003 Davison (28) has formed a formidable Steamers front row combination with Ben Castle and has been a standout for the Chiefs in the 2008 Super 14 competition.

Delany (25) had an outstanding 2007 Steamers season and was recognized with a position in the Highlanders Super 14 squad.

Latimer (22) is renowned for his tireless work ethic and with three years Super Rugby experience has established himself as one of the preeminent opensides in New Zealand.

Bourke (23) has been a regular in Bay colours since he burst onto the scene in 2003 and has been rewarded with a Chiefs wider training squad position this year.

“All four players are exceptional people, who contribute to our organization both on and off the field. We are thrilled to have them confirm their commitment to the Bay to help lead us into the 2008 campaign” Head Coach Kevin Schuler stated.

For more information or comments, please contact Dennis Pickup, Acting Chief Executive Officer on 021 947 698 or Kevin Schuler Steamers Head Coach on 027 478 8198.

NIGHT RUGBY HIGHLIGHTS BAY RUGBY TROPHIES

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:51:12 +0100

Media Release

April 28th 2008

NIGHT RUGBY HIGHLIGHTS BAY RUGBY TROPHIES

The BOPRU Sub-Union representative series will be played under lights for the first time as the BOPRU attempts to be proactive in meeting the changing sporting demands from the community.

BOPRU Rugby Development Manager Mike Rogers says “We see the Sub Union Series as an opportunity to play mid week night rugby. We are well aware of the need to look at alternatives to the traditional weekend sport option as our society changes. The other advantage from playing the fixtures on a Wednesday night was to minimize impact on Baywide Club Rugby.”

The re-introduction of the Sub Union series was one of the real successes of Bay rugby last season. The Te Hurinui Apanui trophy was first contested in 1927 with the inaugural winner being the Rangitaiki Sub-Union.

In the inaugural contests last season Western Bay defeated Central 39-19 and Eastern Bay of Plenty 44-17 to claim the Te Huranui Apanui Shield. The Central Colts side were also dominant in the competition for the Shalfoon Shield overpowering Western Bay 33-5 and defeating Eastern Bay 28-14.

The Sub-Union games have a two-fold purpose. One of the objectives of the BOPRU Community Rugby Plan is to increase the profile and public interest of local competition rugby and the Shalfoon and Te Hurinui Shield fixtures are a great way of achieving this.

Another important outcome is that the matches are an opportunity for the Steamers and representative coaches, to identify potential players for BOP representative teams.

This year’s race for Bay of Plenty Sub-Union rugby supremacy kicks of this Wednesday (30 April 2008) night under lights in Taneatua. Eastern Bay of Plenty will host their Western Bay counterparts with the Colts encounter starting a 6pm and the senior game at 7.30pm.

2008 BOPRU Sub-Union Fixtures

April 30: Eastern BOP v Western BOP @ Taneatua

May 7: Western BOP v Central BOP @ Murray Salt Stadium, Te Puke

May 14: Central BOP v Eastern BOP @ Rotorua International Stadium

For further information contact:

Mike Rogers BOPRU Rugby Development Manager 029 478 4292

Nucifora to leave the Blues

Thu, 01 May 2008 13:50:06 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE

1 May 2008

Nucifora to leave the Blues

Blues Coach David Nucifora has decided he will not coach the Blues in 2009. Nucifora, who has been Head Coach of the Blues’ franchise for three years with a year as Technical Advisor before that, said it was time to return to Australia with his family and will do so at the end of this year’s Rebel Sport Super 14.

“With children about to start high school, our decision had to come down to what is best for our family. The timing of my contract meant I had to make a definite call now – and it was a very tough call to make. While I have been in discussions with the Australian Rugby Union, I do not have a confirmed job to go to, nor do I intend to be coaching another Super 14 team.

“If I was to continue coaching at this level, I would have stayed with the Blues. These last three years have been the most enjoyable of my coaching career. It has been an absolute privilege.”

Blues CEO Andy Dalton said while he was disappointed Nucifora was not continuing with the franchise he understood the reasons why.

“From the outset, David has informed me of family factors that would affect his decision to coach the Blues. I have huge respect for him and the significant results he has achieved within the franchise since he became Head Coach. We are sorry to see him go but will farewell him at the end of this competition with our best wishes.”

Although there are three more round-robin games in the Rebel Sport Super 14, Nucifora was obliged by the terms of his contract to advise the New Zealand Rugby Union of his intentions by the end of April.

He said he felt it was important to share his decision at the earliest opportunity with the team and Blues supporters in order for the Blues to focus solely on the next three matches.

NZRU General Manager of Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said Nucifora went with the best wishes of the NZRU.

“We know the reasons for him wanting to go home and wish him and his family all the very best back in Australia. David has been an outstanding coach and we thank him for his contribution.”

Sorensen said Nucifora’s departure would now give other coaches the opportunity to take over one of New Zealand’s leading rugby teams. He said the Blues franchise and the NZRU would start the recruitment process at the conclusion of the Rebel Sport Super 14.

Note to media: David Nucifora is in Brisbane with the Blues who are to play the Reds tomorrow night. He will be available to the media at midday today AEST time (2pm NZT) in the foyer of the Sofitel in Turbot St.

For further information contact:

Jo Coleman
Head of Communications
Auckland Rugby Union
P: 09 815 4812
M: 0274 297 309
E: jo.coleman@aucklandrugby.co.nz

Joe Locke
NZRU Media Manager
P: 04 494 0778
M: 027 441 8461
E: joe.locke@nzrugby.co.nz

BAYWIDE SECTION ONE TO ATTACT PLENTY OF ATTENTION

Fri, 02 May 2008 12:59:35 +0100

After a number of upsets last weekend there are some mouth-watering match-ups on offer in the Baywide section one competition this Saturday (3 May 2008).

A big crowd is expected at the Murray Salt Stadium in Te Puke, where the defending Baywide premier champions Tauranga Sports, will renew a long time rivalry with Te Puke Sports.

Last weekend, Tauranga Sports who had been steamrolling the opposition could only stand and watch, as Rotoiti easily won the battle of the two unbeaten teams. Tauranga Coach Errol Brain would have had stern words with his charges at training and they are sure to be fired-up on Saturday.

Te Puke Sports have been going quietly about their business this season - and currently sit in third spot on the point’s ledger (one point ahead of Tauranga Sports). The side who has been perennial semi-finalists in recent seasons has an air of confidence this year.

The encounter could fall to the team with the best goal kicker, with both sides having a genuine match winner. Recently transferred (from Whakarewarewa) Eruera Haimona has been in grand form with kicking duties - whilst Te Puke’s Brett McLeod has also had great success this season.

The loyal band of Rotoiti supporters will be on hand at Emery Park as their team endeavors to continue their unbeaten winning streak, against Mount Maunganui. Last Saturday they took apart Tauranga Sport playing no nonsense rugby to post a 30-12 victory. Finding winning form will be the aim of Mount Maunganui who was upset by Whakatane Marist last week.

A journey to Maramatanga Park in the heart of the Western Bay of Plenty should be rewarded for Whakarewarewa. Facing Te Puna at home, they will be made to battle hard for victory.

In other top echelon matches Waikite and Te Teko will be meeting at Bellvue Road with the victor grabbing their first win of the season. The winner of the match between Rangataua and Opotiki Sports will cement their position in the top eight - while Whakatane Marist and Kahukura should have a good tussle in the Eastern Bay.

In section two, Greerton Marist will take an unbeaten record into their meeting with Judea at Maharia Winiata Park. Second placed Ngongotaha should be too good for Poroporo at home, while the two other top four sides of Rangiuru and Kawerau play Reporoa and Papamoa respectively.

The Colts encounter, between Tauranga Sports and Te Puke Sports in Te Puke, will see one of the teams lose their unbeaten record. Mount Maunganui who also boast a perfect season will travel to the Rotorua region to meet Rotoiti.

One game that has plenty of intrigue is the clash at Maramatanga Park between Te Puna and Whakarewarewa. With just one loss apiece the winner will move to near the top of the points ledger.

Opotiki have the opportunity to continue their unbeaten run in the Under 19 grade against Te Puna in Opotiki. The other match could be a battle of attrition between Taneatua and Greerton Marist in the Eastern Bay.

BOPRU Draws 3 May 2008

Section One: (All games 2.45pm) Rotoiti v Mount Maunganui, Emery Park; Waikite v Te Teko, Bellvue Road; Te Puna v Whakarewarewa, Maramatanga Park; Rangataua v Opotiki, Te Ariki Park; Te Puke Sports v Tauranga Sports, Murray Salt Stadium; Whakatane Marist v Kahukura, Rugby Park.

Section Two (All games 2.45pm) Taneatua v Paroa, Taneatua Domain; Poroporo v Ngongotaha, Poroporo Reserve; Reporoa v Rangiuru, Reporoa; Papamoa v Kawerau, Gordon Spratt Reserve; Judea v Greerton Marist, Maharia Winiata Park; Marist Michaels v Arataki, Marist Park.

Colts (All games 1pm) Rotoiti v Mount Maunganui, Emery Park; Waikite v Greerton Marist, Bellvue Road; Te Puke Sports v Tauranga Sports, Murray Salt Stadium; Arataki v Rangataua, Grenada Park; Te Teko v Ngongotaha, Dunderdale Park; Te Puna v Whakarewarewa, Maramatanga Park; Whakatane Marist v Kahukura, Rugby Park.

Under 19 (All games 1pm) Taneatua v Greerton Marist, Taneatua Domain; Opotiki v Te Puna, Opotiki Reserve; Hauraki North the bye.

For further information contact:

Mike Rogers BOPRU Rugby Development Manager

07 574 2037 ex 106 029 478 4292

WHAKAREWAREWA LEAD BAYWIDE SECTION ONE

Mon, 05 May 2008 11:01:23 +0100

WHAKAREWAREWA LEAD BAYWIDE SECTION ONE

Whakarewarewa cruised to the top of the Baywide section one point’s ladder on Saturday (3 May 2008) when they brushed aside the challenge from Te Puna.

In an eight try romp the visitors to Maramatanga Park were always in control to take out the game 52-14. Hayden Baird and Trent Vatselias led the way for Whaka with two touchdowns apiece, with the ever reliable Kelly Haimona kicking six conversions.

While Te Puna were playing catch-up all game against the 2006 Baywide champions they did cross for two tries. Nicholas Mair and Tapene Mika scored a try apiece with Richie Earl kicking the conversions.

At the Murray Salt Stadium in Te Puke – Tauranga Sports rebounded from their first defeat of the season to run away from Te Puke Sports 46-6. In a fairly even first half the defending Baywide titleholders took a reasonably narrow 15-6 lead into the break.

In the second spell Tauranga Sports cut loose running in six tries. Sprinting into the back line from fullback Toby Arnold grabbed three tries. Eruera Haimona playing at first five distributed the ball with finesse - and kicked four conversions and a penalty goal.

Rotoiti, who took an unbeaten record into their clash with Mount Maunganui, tasted defeat with the Mount grabbing a thriller 18-14. The visitors to Emery Park made the early running leading 10 nil at the break. A fight back from Rotoiti saw them get within four points (and take a bonus point from the game).

A relieved Rangataua trekked from Te Ariki Park after claiming a one-point victory over Opotiki. The home side appeared to have the match in the bag with a fifteen point advantage with five minutes remaining

Two storming charges from Opotiki resulted in Reece Simpson and Te Rau Kurei crossing for tries, with Sam Howe slotting the conversion attempts. A 26-25 final score line told the tale of a game that Rangataua nearly let slip away.

In other section one encounters Te Teko posted their first win of the season defeating Waikite 35-20 - with Kahukura nailing their fourth victory of the season beating Whakatane Marist 26-17

While Greerton Marist remained unbeaten in section two, they did it by the skin of their teeth, getting home from Judea 22-19. A seventeen-point lead to Greerton disappeared in the second spell before they sneaked past a brave Judea team.

Former Baywide heavyweights Rangiuru and Ngongotaha both posted victories defeating Reporoa and Poroporo respectively. Papamoa surprised by the margin of the 32-7 victory over Kawerau with Paroa and Marist St Michaels also banking win points.

A real battle between the Tauranga Sports and Te Puke Sports Colts took place. With both teams entering the match with an unbeaten record there was a battle of attrition before Te Puke Sports prevailed 29-26

Bay of Plenty Rugby Baywide Results 3 May 2008

Section One:

Tauranga Sports 46 (Toby Arnold (3) Hohepa Goebel, Marcel Cummimgs-Toone, Alan Davis, Sio Atelemo, tries; Eruera Haimona 4 cons & pen) Te Puke Sports 6 (Brett McLeod 2 pens)

Whakarewarewa 52 (Hayden Baird (2) Trent Vatselias (2) Pauli Asaeli, Jake Rogers, Alexi Kisina, Harold Koia tries; Kelly Haimona 6 cons) Te Puna 14 (Nicholas Mair, Tapene Mika, tries; Richard Earl 2 cons)

Te Teko 35 (Justin Tutua, Kris O’Brien, Ariki Henry, Ryan Hahipene, Scott Sutherland tries; Hahipene 2 cons & 2 pens) Waikite 20 (James O’Neal (3) Mackie Jones tries)

Rangataua 26 (Lance Westrupp (2) Doug Joseph, Wiremu Houia tries; Glen Strang 3 cons) Opotiki 25 (Darin Collier, Reece Simpson, Te Rau Kurei tries; Sam Howe 2 pens & 2 cons)

Kahukura 26 (Josh Rauluni (2) Kaku Shito, David Tawhai tries; Rauluni 2 cons, Charles Hubbard con) Whakatane Marist 17 (Walter Amaroa, Kiti Paonga, Tremaine Tuta tries; Craig Edwards con)

Mount Maunganui 18 (Reggy Manu, Lance McDonald tries; Danny Morrison 2 pens & cons) Rotoiti 14 (Willie Saywell, Glen Martin tries; Whakataki Cunningham 2 cons)

Section 2: Paroa 16 Taneatua 10, Ngongotaha 29 Poroporo 9, Rangiuru 18 Reporoa 10, Papamoa 32 Kawerau 7, Marist St Michaels 10 Arataki 7, Greerton Marist 22 Judea 19.

Colts: Mount Maunganui 33 Rotoiti 3, Greerton Marist 62 Waikite 0, Te Puke Sports 29 Tauranga Sports 26, Arataki 34 Rangataua 10, Ngongotaha 50 Te Teko 17, Whaka 17

Te Puna 5, Kahukura 32 Whakatane Marist 10.

Under 19: Greerton Marist 17 Taneatua 7, Opotiki 64 Te Puna 5.

For further information contact:

Mike Rogers BOPRU Rugby Development Manager

07 574 2037 ex 106 029 478 4292

Nick Evans to play in England

Mon, 05 May 2008 15:54:35 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE

5 May 2008

Nick Evans to play in England

Blues player Nick Evans has today confirmed he is leaving New Zealand to play in England at the conclusion of this year’s Air New Zealand Cup.

27-year-old Evans has signed a deal with English club side Harlequins through to 30 June 2011.

New Zealand Rugby Union General Manager of Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said the organisation had been in regular talks with Evans and his advisors since January this year in an effort to retain him.

“As we all know, Nick is an incredibly talented player and we were definitely keen to keep him playing here in New Zealand.”

“While we are disappointed to lose a player and person of his calibre we respect his decision and want to acknowledge his contribution to New Zealand rugby, and we wish him well over there,” Sorensen said.

Evans made his All Blacks Test debut against England in Dunedin in 2004 and has since played in 16 Tests, scoring 103 points. He also played for the New Zealand Sevens team, in 2002, and the inaugural Junior All Blacks team in 2005.

At Rebel Sport Super 14 level Evans has played 32 games for the Highlanders and 10 games for the Blues this season while at provincial level, he has played for North Harbour and Otago.

Note to media: Nick Evans will be available for interviews at the Blues’ training session today, Monday 5 May.

Details:

Time: 12.30pm – 1.00pm

Venue: Unitec, Carrington Road, Mt Albert

For further information contact:

Joslyn Titus

NZRU Communications Advisor

P: (04) 494 0967

M: 027 227 1750

E: joslyn.titus@nzrugby.co.nz

Jo Coleman

Head of Communications

Blues / Auckland Rugby Union

P: (09) 815 4812

M: 0274 297 309

E: Jo.Coleman@aucklandrugby.co.nz

Media Advisory – implementation of ELVs in NZ

Mon, 05 May 2008 16:03:20 +0100

MEDIA ADVISORY

2 May 2008

Media Advisory – implementation of ELVs in NZ

Following the International Rugby Board Council decision on a global trial of the Experimental Law Variations (ELVs), please find below an outline how the ELVs will be implemented in New Zealand’s rugby competitions this year.

The IRB Council has announced that the global trial will commence for a 12- month period starting on 1 August 2008.

The trial at all levels of the Game will involve 13 of the 23 ELVs that have been undergoing experimentation in approved tournaments around the world over the last two years.

The following ELVs are currently being trialled in the Rebel Sport Super 14 and have been approved as part of the global trial.

Assistant Referees

 Assistant Referees can assist referees in any manner required when appointed by a match organiser.

Posts and flags around the field

 The corner posts are no longer considered to be in touch in-goal except when a ball is grounded against the post.

Lineout and throw

 If a team puts the ball back into their own 22 and the ball is subsequently kicked directly into touch there is no gain of ground.

 A quick throw may be thrown in straight or towards the throwing team’s own goal line.

 Lineout players may pre-grip a jumper before the ball is thrown in.

 The lifting of lineout jumpers is permitted.

Scrum

 Introduction of an offside line five metres behind the hindmost feet of the scrum.

 Halfback offside lines (must be in close proximity to the scrum as present Law or must retreat five metres).

The following ELVs are not being trialled in the Rebel Sport Super 14 but have been approved by the IRB Council and will be part of the global trial.

Lineout and throw

 There is no restriction on the number of players who can participate in the lineout from either side (minimum of two).

 The receiver in a lineout must stand two metres back from the lineout.

 The player who is in opposition to the player throwing in the ball may stand in the area between the five metre line and touch line but must be two metres away from the lineout.

Maul

 Players are able to defend a maul by pulling it down.

 The head and shoulders can now be lower than your hips.

The IRB has also decided that three ELVs currently being trialled in the Rebel Sport Super 14, while not part of the overall global trial, can still be trialled by SANZAR Unions in their domestic competitions until the end of the global trial next year. Therefore, New Zealand’s domestic competitions will be played under the 13 ELVs above plus the three below:

Sanctions

 For all offences other than offside, not entering through the gate and Law 10 Foul Play, the sanction is a free kick.

Tackle and ruck

 Reduction of sanctions to free kicks from penalty kicks where possible.

Maul

 If a maul becomes unplayable, the team not in possession at the start of the maul receives a free kick.

The Air New Zealand Cup, which kicks off on 31 July, as well as the AA Rewards Heartland Championship (starts 23 August), Men’s B competition (starts 30 August) and Women’s competition (starts 23 August) will be played under the 16 ELVs.

The implementation and flow-on effects of the 1 August global trial commencement date on all domestic rugby competitions will be discussed with Provincial Unions and other key stakeholders over the next few weeks.

As previously announced, the three Iveco Series Tests between the All Blacks and Ireland and England in June will not be played under the ELVs as Northern Hemisphere players have not had the chance to play under them.

A decision on whether the Philips Tri Nations will be played under the ELVs is yet to be made by SANZAR. A decision will be announced shortly.

For further information contact:

Joe Locke

NZRU Media Manager

P: 04 494 0778

M: 027 441 8461

E: joe.locke@nzrugby.co.nz

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union sign New Zealand Internationals

Tue, 06 May 2008 14:38:28 +0100

MEDIA ADVISORY

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union sign New Zealand

Internationals

Media access and interviews

There will be opportunity for media to interview Steamers Head Coach Herb

Schuler and the two new signings.

When:

11.15 - 12.00 PM -- Wednesday May 7

Where:

Hells Gate Wai Ora Spa, Rotorua

State Highway 30

Tikitere

Rotorua

www.hellsgate.co.nz

Hells Gate & Wai Ora Spa, one of Rotorua's most famous tourist

attractions is located east from Rotorua on SH 30. Approximately 5

minutes past airport (heading south from Tauranga) turn right toward

Whakatane and proceed 4kms to Hells Gate & Wai Ora Spa.

Details:

11.15am - There will be an official Maori welcome for the players

11.30am - Interviews with Steamers Head Coach Hern Schuler, the

two new signings, and other BOPRU Players

11.45am Photo opportunity with Players in Poutama Mud Bath

We will be circulating a media release at 8am on Thursday May 8 for any media

unable to attend.

For more information, please contact Dirk Merwe, Commercial Manager on

dirk@boprugby.co.nz or 021 995 133

SUB-UNION SERIES CONTINUES UNDER LIGHTS AT TE PUKE

Tue, 06 May 2008 15:53:12 +0100

The BOPRU Sub-Union match, to be played under lights at Murray Salt Stadium this Wednesday (7 May 2008) between Western Bay and Central - will play a crucial part in who ultimately wins the Te Hurinui Apanui Shield this season.

The re-introduction of the Sub Union series was one of the real successes of Bay rugby last season. The Te Hurinui Apanui trophy was first contested in 1927 with the inaugural winner being the Rangitaiki Sub-Union.

BOPRU Rugby Development Manager Mike Rogers says “We see the Sub Union Series as an opportunity to play mid week night rugby. We are well aware of the need to look at alternatives to the traditional weekend sport option as our society changes. The other advantage from playing the fixtures on a Wednesday night was to minimize impact on Baywide Club Rugby.”

A large dose of luck will need to be with defending Shield holders Western Bay - for them to gather any Te Hurinui Apanui success this year. Last Wednesday the Western Bay side returned home from playing Eastern Bay (in Taneatua) on the wrong side of a 17-7 score line.

While success will be on the minds of both combatants this Wednesday, it is certain that the final game in the series between Central and Eastern Bay, will decide the Te Hurinui Apanui Shield.

In the inaugural contest last season between Western Bay and Central - the Western Bay side emerged victorious 39-19. Both sides have named strong combinations for the mid-week encounter.

Successive Shalfoon Shield titles will be on the mind of the Central team when they open their 2008 season campaign on Wednesday. Last year the titleholders ran away from their Western Bay opposition to post a 33-3 victory. Last week Western Bay beat their Eastern Bay counterparts 48-3 to set up what should be an absorbing game with Central on Wednesday evening.

BOPRU Sub-Union Program Wednesday 7 May 2008 at Murray Salt Stadium

6.30pm: Western BOP Colts v Central Colts

7.30pm: Western BOP v Central BOP

Team Selections

Central Bay of Plenty

Joe Savage, Jake Rogers, Hayden Beard, Pauli Aseli, Manu Henry, Trent Vatselias, Trent Sweeney, Olsen Rarere, Brad Savage, Kelly Haimona (Whakarewarewa) Joe Masters, Matatu Herewini, Luther Robinson, Glen Martin, Whakataki Cunningham, Willy Saywell, Zac Hohneck (Rotoiti) John Moore, Matt Pashue (Ngongotaha) Haimona Brown (Rotoiti)/Tumoana Wijohn (Waikite) Josh Rauluni (Kahukura)/ Davey Beckett (Ngongotaha)

Western Bay of Plenty

Ray Brown, Bruce Olsen, Gareth Brown, Toby Arnold (Tauranga Sports) Shane Manu, Zane Butler, Troye Elvin, Marty Bourke, Lance McDonald (Mount Maunganui) Timoti Gardiner (Rangataua) Josh Goodwin (Greerton) Matt Wallis, Luke Perrott, Craig Donovan, Brett McLeod, Alan Jarvis-Cook, Ross Nicolaas (Te Puke Sports) Shannon Borrell, Aiden Kuka, Hori Leef (Te Puna) Luke Braid (Tauranga Sports)/ Daniel Schuster (Te Puna)

Zar Lawrence and Nigel Hunt sign for the Bay

Wed, 07 May 2008 16:19:37 +0100

Media Release
May 8th 2008
The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union is pleased to announce the signing of New Zealand Sevens Players, Zar Lawrence and Nigel Hunt for the 2008 Air New Zealand Cup.

Both are proven competitors as shown by their performances on a demanding International Sevens circuit. Their experience of playing under pressure at the top level will help bring a level of consistency and leadership to the Steamers in 2008.

Lawrence, (26) has been a member of the New Zealand Sevens team since 2005 and has played 21 Air New Zealand Cup games for North Harbour. Lawrence has played centre, wing and fullback at Air NZ Cup level.

Hunt, (24) has been a member of the New Zealand Sevens team since 2005 and has been a member of the Wellington Lions since 2004, playing 9 Air New Zealand Cup games. Hunt has been halfback behind Piri Weepu and Alby Matheson in Wellington while also having the ability to play middle field and wing.

“We have had our eye on Nigel for the past couple of seasons after watching him score 5 tries against our Development team while playing on the wing”. Steamers Head Coach Herb Schuler stated.

“As New Zealand Sevens Players, Nigel and Zar bring an x-factor to our team that I am sure will excite our supporters,” Steamers Head Coach Herb Schuler stated. “Both players have the ability to play a number of backline positions, this give us options of how we can best display their considerable talents under the new rules” Schuler stated.

For more information or comments, please contact Dennis Pickup, Acting Chief Executive Officer on 021 947 698 or Kevin Schuler, Steamers Head Coach on 027 478 8198.

CENTRAL BAY TAKE OUT THE BATTLE AGAINST WESTERN BAY

Thu, 08 May 2008 14:41:20 +0100

Bay of Plenty history details numerous battles that took place over the years – Another titanic battle took place at Murray Salt Stadium last night (7 May 2008) when the second game of the BOPRU Sub-Union series was fought out.

Defending Te Hurinui Apanui Shield holders Western Bay of Plenty, went into the match with their Central Bay counterparts, desperate for victory. After defeat by Eastern Bay the previous week - Western Bay had to defeat the Central team to have a theoretical chance of retaining the trophy.

Central went on the offensive from the opening whistle. Whakarewarewa stalwart Kelly Haimona took ownership of the first half for Central touching down then kicking the conversion. A Haimona penalty saw the visitors take a 10 nil lead into the break.

Early in the second spell Glen Martin crossed for the Rotorua side to put them firmly in control. Western Bay then got real urgency into their game and was rewarded with a try wide out to Toby Arnold. The Colin Bourke conversion from the sideline got the home team back into the match.

In spite of Western Bay making a series attacks on the line, the Central defense stood resolute to take out the encounter 15-7. The Central victory sets up the Te Hurinui Apanui decider next Wednesday (14 May 2008) - when Central host Eastern Bay of Plenty at the International Stadium in Rotorua,

Earlier in the evening the Western Bay Colts grabbed the Shalfoon Shield when they got past the Central Colts. Memories of last years 33-3 pasting were revisited by the home team when Central sliced through for an early converted try.

The Western Bay representatives took a narrow 12-7 lead in to the break to suggest the match was up for grabs. Two further tries in the second spell saw the home side take the encounter 24-7 and regain the Shalfoon Shield from Central.

The victory was achieved from a team that further stepped up another couple of notches from their first round win over Eastern Bay. Team management singled out the contributions of Tangaroa Walker and Matt Moore towards the victory.

2008 BOPRU Sub-Union Results 7 May 2008

Senior: Central BOP 15 (Kelly Haimona, Glen Martin tries; Kelly Haimona pen & con) Western BOP 7 (Toby Arnold try; Colin Bourke con)

Colts: Western BOP 24 (Danny Tonga (2) Tom Fitzgerald, Lance Westrupp tries; Fitzgerald 2 cons) Central BOP 7 (Beau Kiel try; John Wirangi con)

Kahukura Face Biggest Challenge of the Season

Thu, 08 May 2008 14:47:51 +0100

The real surprise package in the Baywide section one rugby competition this season has been Kahukura. Unheralded at the start of the season the Kuirau Park based side has impressed many with four wins.

Under the astute guidance of Coach Ron Preston, Kahukura have played no nonsense rugby, to currently sit in sixth place on the points ledger. This Saturday (10 May 2008) they face their biggest challenge of the season when they host Rotoiti.

An undefeated run by the Rotorua lakesiders ended last weekend when they were beaten by Mount Maunganui. A fired up challenge from Rotoiti - eager to get their Baywide title hopes back on track is the likely scenario at Kuirau Park.

Top of the table Whakarewarewa should showcase their considerable talent when they host Whakatane Marist at Puarenga Park. While the Eastern Bay side, have been competitive in the top echelon this season, they are unlikely to be able to combat the Whaka firepower.

The winner of the contest at Blake Park, between Mount Maunganui and Te Puke Sports, will see the victor cement their position near the top of the section one points table. Both sides have shown solid form interspersed with two losses apiece.

A real rivalry will be continued at the Tauranga Domain with Tauranga Sports hosting Rangataua. Last weekend saw Tauranga Sports rebound from defeat, by comprehensively beating Te Puke Sports, with Rangataua scrapping home from Opotiki.

The battle to make the top eight is the main ingredient in the clash between Te Teko and Te Puna. With the two teams near the bottom of points ladder, the fight to avoid relegation to division one, will be on the minds of both teams. In the remaining match Opotiki at home should be too good for Waikite.

In section two near neighbors Papamoa and Arataki could have a good old-fashioned arm wrestle at Grenada Park. Greerton Marist should remain the only unbeaten team in the second echelon when they face Marist St Michaels - while second placed Ngongotaha should be too strong against Reporoa.

The race for the Colts title hot’s up this weekend, in a top of the table meeting between Mount Maunganui and Te Puke Sports, at Blake Park. With both sides having unblemished records this season, the winner will pick up the early favourite mantle for silverware later in the season.

Fourth place Whakarewarewa should have little trouble picking up another win when they play Whakatane Marist - while the match between Tauranga Sports and Rangataua could go down to the wire.

In the Under 19 grade unbeaten Opotiki should receive a real challenge from Greerton Marist. In the other encounter Taneatua will make the long journey to Thames Valley to play Hauraki North.

Section One Points Table: Whakarewarewa 26, Tauranga Sports 24, Rotoiti 22, Te Puke Sports 20, Mount Maunganui 19, Kahukura 17, Rangataua 16, Opotiki 10, Whakatane Marist 9, Te Teko 7, Te Puna 5, Waikite 2.

BOPRU Draws 10 May 2008

Section One: (All games 2.45pm) Te Teko v Te Puna, Dunderdale Park; Opotiki v Waikite, Opotiki Reserve; Whakarewarewa v Whakatane Marist, Puarenga Park; Mount Maunganui v Te Puke Sports, Blake Park; Kahukura v Rotoiti, Kuirau Park; Tauranga Sports v Rangataua, Tauranga Domain.

Section Two (All games 2.45pm) Kawerau v Poroporo, Firmin Field; Ngongotaha v Reporoa, Ngongotaha Domain; Arataki v Papamoa, Grenada Park; Paroa v Judea, Lawson Park; Greerton Marist v Marist St Michaels, Greerton Park; Rangiuru v Taneatua, Jamieson Oval.

Colts (All games 1pm) Tauranga Sports v Rangataua, Tauranga Domain; Arataki v Rotoiti, Grenada Park; Mount Maunganui v Te Puke Sports, Murray Salt Stadium; Whakarewarewa v Whakatane Marist, Puarenga Park; Kahukura v Greerton Marist, Kuirau Park; Ngongotaha v Waikite, Ngongotaha Domain; Te Teko v Te Puna, Dunderdale Park.

Under 19 (All games 1pm) Hauraki North v Taneatua, Waitakururu Domain; Greerton Marist v Opotiki, Greerton Park; Te Puna the bye.

Two players to join New Zealand Under 20 side North Harbour’s Chris Smith named captain

Fri, 09 May 2008 11:12:04 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE

8 May 2008

Two players to join New Zealand Under 20 side North

Harbour’s Chris Smith named captain

Hurricanes winger Zac Guildford and Auckland prop Paea Fa’anunu have been added to the New Zealand Under 20 squad for the inaugural IRB Junior World Championship, which will take place in Wales in June.

Guildford and three other Rebel Sport Super 14 players from the Crusaders, wings Sean Maitland and Kade Poki and loose forward Nasi Manu, will join the New Zealand Under 20 squad at the end of the Super 14 competition.

North Harbour lock and Blues wider training group member Chris Smith, who captained New Zealand to the IRB Under 19 World Championship title last year, will captain the New Zealand Under 20 side.

The New Zealand Under 20 squad assembles at the Millennium Institute in North Harbour from Monday 26 May and departs Auckland for Wales on Saturday 31 May.

New Zealand Under 20 squad: *Ben Afeaki (North Harbour), *Rodney Ah You (Canterbury), *Luke Braid (Bay of Plenty), *Ryan Crotty (Canterbury), *Ash Dixon (Hawke's Bay), *Paea Fa’anunu (Auckland), ^*Zac Guildford (Hawke’s Bay), Michael Harris (North Harbour), Grayson Hart (Auckland), Joe Hill (Wellington), *Daniel Kirkpatrick (Wellington), Matthew Luamanu (Wellington), *Quentin MacDonald (Tasman), ^*Sean Maitland (Canterbury), ^*Nasi Manu (Canterbury), ^*Kade Poki (Tasman), Hugh Reed (Hawke's Bay), *Trent Renata (Waikato), *Peter Saili (Auckland), Aaron Smith (Manawatu), *Chris Smith (North Harbour), Toby Smith (Waikato), Andre Taylor (Manawatu), *Josh Townsend (Otago), *Sam Whitelock (Canterbury), *Jackson Willison (Waikato).

* Member of the 2007 New Zealand Under 19 team.

^ 2008 Rebel Sport Super 14 player.

For further information contact:

Joslyn Titus

NZRU Communications Advisor

P: (04) 494 0967

M: 027 227 1750

E: joslyn.titus@nzrugby.co.nz

Te Hurinui Apanui Finale to Take Centre Stage

Wed, 14 May 2008 09:39:11 +0100

The only certainty in the Te Hurinui Apanui Shield finale to be played out at the Rotorua International Stadium on Wednesday (14 May 2008) - is that there will be a new champion crowned.

The Te Hurinui Apanui Shield, which is the symbol of Bay of Plenty Sub-Union supremacy, was first contested in 1927. In previous decades the Te Hurinui Apanui trophy ranked second only behind the Peace Cup in stature.

With defending Shield holders Western Bay of Plenty, being defeated by both Eastern Bay of Plenty and Central Bay of Plenty, the guardian for the next twelve months will be decided on Wednesday – when Central hosts Eastern.

The Eastern team will look to target supremacy at the ruck and break down area with a combative loose forward trio spearheaded by Opotiki loose forwards Matt Henwood, Roha Maxwell and 2007 Bay of Plenty Under 20 Representative, Dan Bowater.

Central Bay, who are ably assisted by former All Black Legend Buck Shelford, have a strong back division with a combination of outstanding young Rotoiti 5 Eight, Whakataki Cunningham and Whaka playmaker Kelly Haimona alternating between 1^st and 2^nd Five leading the way.

The encounter to be played under lights at the Rotorua International Stadium also doubles as the third leg of BOPRU trials to select a Bay Fifteen squad for fixtures in June.

While the Shalfoon Shield, which is the symbol of Colts Sub-Union supremacy, has been already won by Western Bay of Plenty, there will still be plenty to play for in the curtain raiser. With a defeat apiece inflicted by Western Bay, both the respective Colts teams will be playing for pride and bragging rights on the night.

BOPRU Sub-Union Program Wednesday 14 May 2008 at Rotorua International Stadium

6.00pm: Central Colts v Eastern BOP

7.30pm: Central BOP v Eastern BOP

New Zealand Sevens squad assembles

Thu, 15 May 2008 14:16:27 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE

9 May 2008

New Zealand Sevens squad assembles

A squad of 15 players will assemble at Mt Maunganui next week for a five-day training camp as the New Zealand Sevens squad prepares for the final two IRB Sevens World Series tournaments in London and Edinburgh.

New Zealand leads the Series on 126 points ahead of South Africa (92 points) and Fiji (74 points).

The camp will be held from Tuesday 13 May through to Saturday 17 May.

“This camp is important because we will need to get the players back into competition mode,” New Zealand Sevens Coach Gordon Tietjens said.

“We were disappointed with our results in Adelaide after such a good performance in Hong Kong but we have put ourselves in a good position to win the Series and it is important to go into London with a positive attitude.”

Wellington’s Victor Vito will not assemble with the squad and will instead concentrate on fifteens. Tietjens said the decision to withdraw Vito from the Sevens team was made in the interest of his development.

“Victor made a tremendous impact on the Sevens team and the Series in his debut season but a player’s overall rugby development is also important and in Victor’s case it was thought he should concentrate on fifteens-specific training over the next few months.”

The New Zealand Sevens squad for the tournaments in London (24–25 May) and Edinburgh (31 May–1 June) will be named at the conclusion of next week’s camp.

New Zealand Sevens camp squad: Tomasi Cama (Manawatu), Edwin Cocker (Auckland), Israel Dagg (Hawke’s Bay), DJ Forbes (Counties Manukau), Nigel Hunt (Bay of Plenty), Tafai Ioasa (Hawke’s Bay), Solomon King (Bay of Plenty), Zar Lawrence (Bay of Plenty), Kendrick Lynn (Southland), Ben Nowell (Canterbury), Afeleke Pelenise (Tasman), Lote Raikabula (Manawatu), Rene Ranger (Northland), Chad Tuoro (Counties Manukau), Nafi Tuitavake (North Harbour)

For further information contact:

Joslyn Titus

NZRU Communications Advisor

P: (04) 494 0967

M: 027 227 1750

E: joslyn.titus@nzrugby.co.nz

TE HURINUI APANUI FINALE TAKEN OUT BY CENTRAL

Thu, 15 May 2008 14:53:14 +0100

Media Release

May 15th 2008

TE HURINUI APANUI FINALE TAKEN OUT BY CENTRAL

The Te Hurinui Apanui Shield will reside in Rotorua for the next twelve months after the Central Bay Sub-Union team ran away from Eastern Bay 55-13 on Wednesday night.

A mild night, greeted the two teams as they ran out on the Rotorua International Stadium, to contest the finale of the symbol of Sub-Union supremacy in the Bay of Plenty.

A strong start to the encounter saw the home team in control at the break to lead 27-3. Four tries in the first half were followed by a similar number in the second spell. Wayne Hughson who has recently returned from injury grabbed three touchdowns with Whakarewarewa player Paula Asaeli dotting down twice.

The icing on the cake for Central was provided by the kicks at goal by Kelly Haimona and Whakataki Cunningham who contributed 15 points with the boot. Whaka mid fielder Asaeli, who has recently been selected for Tonga, was one of the stars of the Central team with piercing runs and effective distribution of the ball.

While Eastern Bay showed determination for most of the match they found the Central pace attack hard to combat. For Eastern Bay Daniel Bowater and John Smith crossed for tries late in the match - to provide some consolation for a team that had been mainly shut out of the game.

Second place in the Shalfoon Shield competition, was the reward for the Central Bay Colts, who had an equally comfortable victory over their Eastern Bay counterparts. With Western Bay wrapping up the Shalfoon the previous week the two sides were playing for pride at the Rotorua Stadium.

The match was dominated by Siegfreid Fisiihoi who ran in five tries in the first half and a further touch down in the second spell. The 46 nil victory was set up through storming runs from Fisiihoi, a Bay of Plenty under 20 representative in 2007.

At the conclusion of the Colts series BOPRU Club Liaison Officer Steve Anderson said “the commitment of the Colts players to the sub-union series was impressive, with the three sub-union sides providing more players than they could accommodate on the field of play at each fixture” Anderson also added that “good form and combinations in the Central Bay senior representative side shone through in their series, with a number of Steamers and Development players providing the impetus for their success”.

The Bay of Plenty Steamers management will name a Wasps (BOP XV) team in the next week to contest fixtures against Waikato and Hawkes Bay in June.

Results

Central Bay Senior 55 (Wayne Hughson 3, Paula Asaeli 2, Josh Rauluni, Scott Bogun, Trent Sweeney tries; Kelly Haimona 3con, pen, Whakataki Cunningham 3con) Eastern Bay Senior 13 (Daniel Bowater, John Smith tries; Smith pen) HT 27-3.

Central Bay Colts 46 (Siegfreid Fisiihoi 6, Chirs van der Vlugt, Beau Kiel tries; John Wiringi 2con, Chucka Mike-Khan con) Eastern Bay Colts 0 HT 27-0.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Rugby Development Manager 029 478 4292

ROTORUA BAYWIDE FRONT RUNNERS TO CLASH AT EMERY PARK

Fri, 16 May 2008 17:00:52 +0100

Two matches either end of the spectrum of the Baywide section one rugby competition, will generate plenty of interest on Saturday (17 May 2008).

A top of the table clash, between competition leaders Whakarewarewa and fellow Rotorua side Rotoiti, should draw the biggest crowd of the season out to Emery Park. The weekend combatants have a fierce rivalry that stretches back decades.

While both sides have lost just one game apiece during the season - the value of bonus points is underlined by Whaka being five points in front of their traditional rivals. With both teams, having solid forward packs and several game breakers in their units, a game of attrition could result.

With the game likely to go down to the wire - victory could come from the side with the most successful goal kicker. Both sides are well served in the kicking department, with Kelly Haimona in grand form for Whaka, while Whakataki Cunningham has had plenty of success for Rotoiti.

At the other end of the points table is an equally vital encounter with the two cellar dwellers meeting. Former Baywide heavyweight Waikite will host Te Puna at Bellvue Road. While both teams look likely to play in division one in the Baywide second round - success could revitalise the winner’s fortunes.

Second placed Tauranga Sports should beat Opotiki - however the Eastern Bay side has provided plenty of go forward against teams this season. An old fashioned battle could take place between Te Puke Sports and the Kahukura who nearly upset Rotoiti last weekend.

An Eastern Bay local derby will take place at Rugby Park in Whakatane when Whakatane Marist meets near neighbours Te Teko. Form would suggest that Mount Maunganui should have little trouble with Rangataua - however Rangataua are always hard to dislodge at home.

Section two front-runners Greerton Marist could see their unbeaten record under threat against Papamoa. While Papamoa sit mid table they are another side who seem to shine in front of a home crowd.

Ngongotaha and Kawerau, whom have both posted several significant victories during the year, should provide an entertaining spectacle in Rotorua. In other matches Rangiuru should be too good for Judea, Poroporo at home could trouble Arataki, while Reporoa and Marist St Michaels are at home against Taneatua and Paroa respectively.

The Colts competition is led by Mount Maunganui who will travel the short distance to Te Ariki Park to play Rangataua. Further down the point’s ledger there is a logjam with just six points separating five teams.

Second placed Tauranga Sports face another top four contender in Greerton Marist, with Whaka, Te Puke Sports and Ngongotaha also looking for further success.

Under 19 competition leader Opotiki should have a good tussle with Thames Valley side Hauraki North in the Valley, with Greerton favoured to beat fellow Western Bay side Te Puna.

BOPRU Draws 17 May 2008

Section One: (All games 2.45pm) Whakatane Marist v Te Teko, Rugby Park; Rangataua v Mount Maunganui, Te Ariki Park; Rotoiti v Whakarewarewa, Emery Park; Opotiki v Tauranga Sports, Opotiki Reserve; Waikite v Te Puna, Bellvue Road; Te Puke Sports v Kahukura, Murray Salt Stadium.

Section Two (All games 2.45pm) Judea v Rangiuru, Maharia Winiata Park; Ngongotaha v Kawerau, Ngongotaha Domain; Poroporo v Arataki, Poroporo Park; Marist St Michaels, v Paroa, Marist Park; Papamoa v Greerton Marist, Gordon Spratt Reserve; Reporoa v Taneatua, Reporoa.

Colts (All games 1pm) Arataki v Kahukura, Grenada Park; Rangataua v Mount Maunganui, Te Ariki Park; Te Puke Sports v Ngongotaha, Murray Salt Stadium; Whakatane Marist v Te Teko, Rugby Park; Waikite v Te Puna, Bellvue Road; Greerton Marist v Tauranga Sports, Greerton Park; Rotoiti v Whakarewarewa, Emery Park.

Under 19 (All games 1pm) Hauraki North v Opotiki, Waitakaruru Domain; Greerton Marist v Te Puna, Greerton Park; Taneatua the bye.

Bay of Plenty Wasps Squad Named

Mon, 19 May 2008 15:29:06 +0100

Bay Of Plenty Steamers coach Kevin Schuler and his assistant Steve Miln have named their Squad for matches against The Waikato Harlequins in Hamilton on Wednesday 4 June (kick-off 6pm @ Waikato Stadium), and a Hawkes Bay Saracens in Rotorua on Tuesday 10 June (kick-off 6pm @ Rotorua Int. Stadium).

The fixtures will be played under the Wasps name after a new partnership between the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union and the Wasps was agreed earlier this week.

Bay of Plenty Wasps Squad

Forwards;

Ray Brown (TGA Sports), Rob Rewi (Rotoiti), Joe Savage (Whakarewarewa), Matt Wallis (Te Puke Sports), Marcel Cummings-Toone (TGA Sports), Dean Elmiger (Opotiki), John Pareanga (Te Puna), Alan Davis (TGA Sports), Aiden Kuka (Te Puna), John Moore (Ngongotaha), Culum Rettalick (TGA Sports), Colin Bourke (Mount Maunganui), Matt Henwood (Opotiki), Zac Hohnek (Rotoiti), Brue Olsen (TGA Sports), Dave Whitcliffe-Davies (Te Puke Sports), one to be added.

Backs;

Josh Hall (TGA Sports), Glenn Martin (Rotoiti), Whakataki Cunningham (Rotoiti), Kelly Haimona (Whakarewarewa), Cory Aporo (Mount Maunganui), Paula Asaeli (Whakarewarewa), Wayne Hughson (Whakarewarewa), Willie Saywell (Rotoiti), Toby Arnold (TGA Sports), Hayden Baird (Whakarewarewa), Maru Henry (Whakarewarewa), Lance McDonald (Mount Maunganui), Teu Nafe (Whakarewarewa), Tom Yates (Taneatua).

Not considered due to injury;

James McGougan (TGA Sports), Matt vant Leven (Whakarewarewa), Charles Baxter (Te Puke Sports), Zane Butler (Mount Maunganui), Jason Hona (Rangataua).

Management: Kevin Schuler (head coach ), Steve Miln (assistant coach ) Sean Horan (manager), Murray Pedersen (strength & conditioning coach ), Paul Cameron (physio), Morne Du Plessis (doctor), Chris Lapage (video analysis).

For more information, please contact Kevin Schuler, Steamers head Coach on kevin@boprugby.co.nz or 027 478 8198.

Whakarewarewa Win Local Rotorua Derby

Mon, 19 May 2008 15:35:10 +0100

The top of the table Baywide section one clash, between Rotorua heavyweights Whakarewarewa and Rotoiti, resulted in a decisive six-try victory to Whaka. A 22-3 score line at the half time break was extended in the second half with the competition leaders waltzing home 46-9.

Kelly Haimona broke the hundred points for the season mark with a try, five conversions and two penalties. Other try scorers for Whaka were Paula Asaeli, Wayne Hughson, Aliki Kisina, Teu Nafe and Siegfried Fishiihoi. All the Rototiti points came from penalty goals, with Whakataki Cunningham booting home two, and Glen Martin one.

Tauranga Sports, who are sitting in second place on the point’s ledger, had a real struggle with Opotiki in the Eastern Bay. The home side played with real pride and passion in front of their parochial supporters, with the Opotiki forwards dominating much of the encounter.

The Tauranga side picked up their game in the last quarter and came from behind to take out the match 17-16. Tauranga fullback Toby Arnold, who leads the Baywide try scoring stakes, added another two touchdowns to his season tally.

Te Puke Sports consolidated their position in the top six with a commanding 63-10 win, over Kahukura. While the game was relatively even in the first spell - Te Puke cut loose in the final quarter to run in five tries. Te Puke fullback Brett McLeod had an outstanding match scoring a try and kicking six conversions and two penalty goals.

Mount Maunganui, had to withstand real pressure from Rangataua, in the closing minutes of the game before getting home 18-11. The encounter was very tight before Colin Bourke crossed for the Mounts third touch down.

Te Teko posted their third successive victory defeating Whakatane Marist 32-10, while Te Puna had to withstand a grandstand finish from Waikite, before grabbing the game 31-27.

The surprise in section two was competition leaders Greerton Marist being held to a 13 all draw by Papamoa. Ngongotaha continued on their winning way with a hard fought victory over Kawerau 25-12.

Other second echelon teams to post victories were Rangiuru, Arataki, Paroa, and Reporoa.

While the result will show that the Mount Maunganui Colts clung on to their undefeated record against Rangataua - the game went down to the wire before the Mount emerged victorious 13-8. Greerton Marist sprung a minor surprise beating Tauranga Sports 8-3 in a real arm wrestle.

Thames Valley team Hauraki North upset Under 19 competition leaders Opotiki 21 nil.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Baywide Results 17 May 2008

Whakarewarewa 46 (Kelly Haimona, Paula Asaeli, Wayne Hughson, Aliki Kisina, Teu Nafe, Siegfried Fishiihoi tries; Haimona 5 con, 2pen) Rotoiti 9 (Glen Martin pen, Whakataki Cunningham 2 pen) HT 22-3

Te Puna (Aidan Kuka 2, Clinton Lucas, Tau Anderson, Daniel Schuster tries; Quinton Gardiner 3cons) Waikite 27 (Mackie Jones, Hame Hudson, Dane Keepa tries; John Wiringi 3con, 2pen) HT 26-3

Te Puke 63 (Josh Harrison 3, Rameka Poihipi, Aaron Sutherland, PJ Gidlow, Lance Te Kiri, Brett McLeod tries; McLeod 6pen, 2con) Kahukura 10 (Julian Thompson try; Charles Hubbard con, pen) HT 15-3

Tauranga Sports 17 (Toby Arnold 2, Marcel Cummings-Toone tries; Eruera Haimona con) Opotiki 16 (Steve Tai, Sam Gaskill tries; Sam Howe 2pen). HT 13-5.

Te Teko 32 (Scott Sutherland, Tupu Burgess, Tu Williams, Josh Katene tries; Ryan Hahipene 3con 2pen) Whakatane Marist 10 (Dan Haddock try; Craig Edwards con pen)

Mount 18 (Danny Tonga, Colin Bourke, Dave Afu tries; Danny Morrison pen) Rangataua 11 (Lance Westrupp try; Glen Strang 2pen) HT 8-6

Section Two: Rangiuru 34 Judea 12, Ngongotaha 25 Kawerau 12, Arataki 27 Poroporo 14, Paroa 7 Marist St Michaels 3, Papamoa 13 Greerton Marist 13, Reporoa 27 Taneatua 7.

Colts: Arataki 63 Kahukura 14, Mount Maunganui 13 Rangataua 8, Te Puke Sports 24 Ngongotaha 17, Te Teko 43 Whakatane Marist 12, Te Puna 50 Waikite 3, Greerton Marist 8 Tauranga Sports 3, Whakarewarewa defeated Rotoiti.

Under 19: Hauraki North 21 Opotiki 0, Greerton Marist won by default.

Kahukura and Rangataua Battle For Points at Kuirau Park

Fri, 23 May 2008 17:00:24 +0100

With just three rounds remaining before the top eight to contest the Baywide Premier championship are found – attention this Saturday (24 May 2008) is focused on the middle of the section one point’s table, where several teams are battling for survival.

With Whakarewarewa, Tauranga Sports, Mount Maunganui, Rotoiti and Te Puke Sports seemingly secure in the top eight (bar a team meltdown) the race is on for the teams sitting in sixth to ninth place.

No game assumes more importance this weekend, than the clash at Kuirau Park between Kahukura and Rangataua. With one point (and two places on the ledger card) separating the teams – the victor will take a significant step to a top eight berth, while the loser will have a fight for survival on their hands.

Kahukura have been a revelation this season – written off at season start, the team based at Kuirau Park, has posted four wins and sit in sixth possie. The Western Bay visitors, are not such a potent force away from Te Ariki Park, although they can storm the try line from anywhere on the field.

Te Teko, has come from the bottom of the point’s ladder - to string together three wins in a row to now be in the mix for a premier berth. They face a real challenge to advance meeting Rotoiti at Dunderlale Park. One advantage they take into the clash with one of the Baywide heavyweights, is the voice of their passionate and vocal supporters at home.

Two teams with a just sniff of a top eight finish will go to battle at Maramatanga Park. While Te Puna and Whakatane Marist sit near the bottom of the ladder - the winner could have a theoretical chance of sneaking into the premier championship.

An interesting match-up will take place at Puarenga Park where competition leaders Whakarewarewa will take on Te Puke Sports. The Western Bay side recovered from two successive losses to demolish Kahukura last weekend.

Mount Maunganui, who has been quietly racking up victories, could have a real tussle with Opotiki at Blake Park while Tauranga Sports should be too good for Waikite.

In section two Greerton Marist lead the way from Ngongotaha by a solitary point. This Saturday, Greerton should be too classy for Poroporo in the Western Bay, with Ngongotaha taking on Arataki.

In the Colts division, Mount Maunganui has established a five-point lead, over Whakarewarewa and Te Puke Sports. The game of the round should be the curtain raiser at Puarenga Park, where Whaka will host Te Puke Sports.

A local Eastern Bay derby will see Opotiki take on Taneatua in the Under 19 grade while Hauraki North will travel to play Te Puna at Maramatanga Park.

Baywide Section One Points Table

Whakarewarewa (36) Tauranga Sports (33) Mount Maunganui (28) Rotoiti (26) Te Puke Sports (25) Kahukura (18) Te Teko (17) Rangataua (17) Opotiki (15) Whakatane Marist (10) Te Puna (10) Waikite (4).

BOPRU Draws 24 May 2008

Section One: (All games 2.45pm) Te Puna v Whakatane Marist, Maramatanga Park; Whakarewarewa v Te Puke Sports, Puarenga Park; Kahukura v Rangataua, Kuirau Park; Mount Maunganui v Opotiki, Blake Park; Tauranga Sports v Waikite, Tauranga Domain; Te Teko v Rotoiti, Dunderland Park.

Section Two (All games 2.45pm) Arataki v Ngongotaha, Grenada Park; Greerton Marist v Poroporo, Greerton Park; Kawerau v Reporoa, Firmin Field; Paroa v Papamoa, Lawson Field; Rangiuru v Marist St Michaels, Jamieson Oval; Taneatua v Judea, Taneatua Domain.

Colts (All games 1pm) Te Teko v Arataki, Dunderland Park; Mount Maunganui v Ngongotaha, Blake Park; Whakarewarewa v Te Puke Sports, Puarenga Park; Rotoiti v Greerton Marist, Emery Park; Kahukura v Rangataua, Kuirau Park; Te Puna v Whakatane Marist, Maramatanga Park; Tauranga Sports v Waikite, Tauranga Domain.

Under 19 (All games 1pm) Te Puna v Hauraki North, Maramatanga Park; Opotiki v Taneatua, Opotiki Domain; Greerton Marist the bye.

Upsets Create a Mid Table Logjam in Section One

Mon, 26 May 2008 17:05:26 +0100

Round nine of the Baywide section one rugby competition was expected to clarify the top eight contenders, who will compete in the Baywide premier championship. However two upset results on Saturday (24 May 2008) have created a logjam in the middle of the competitions point’s ladder.

While Opotiki have been competitive all season - only there most ardent supporters could see them defeating Mount Maunganui at Blake Park. Sitting in ninth position on the point’s ledger going into the encounter, the Eastern Bay visitors took control early in the match, to lead 22-7 at the half way break.

While there was a fight back from Mount Maunganui in the second spell – Opotiki went on to emerge as decisive winners taking out the encounter 31-19. The five tries to the visitors earned Opotiki a valuable bonus point with Brian Davies leading the way with two touchdowns.

The second surprise came when Te Teko posted their fourth win in a row - when overcoming Rotoiti at Dunderdale Park. In a match that became a battle of attrition, Tupu Burgess scored two tries for Te Teko, as his side got home 18-11. The latest win sees Te Teko who has come from the bottom of the point’s ledger now sitting in seventh position.

In a match where victory was essential to remaining in the top eight Rangataua defeated Kahukura 30-22 at Kuirau Park. With the two upsets and a bonus point for scoring four tries - Kahukura still remain in contention to make the premier championship.

At Maramatanga Park, home side Te Puna finally put the pieces together to run over Whakatane Marist 41-13. While the first half belonged to Te Puna who led 27-6 at the break, sustained pressure from the visitors had Te Puna back pedalling for much of the second spell. Two quick tries to Quinton Gardiner and Aidan Kuka with fifteen minutes remaining, wrapped up the home sides victory.

Competition leaders Whakarewarewa, had a good old fashioned arm wrestle with Te Puke Sports before taking the game 26-13, with Tauranga Sports proving too good for bottom placed Waikite 46-13.

Upsets also abounded in section two. Reporoa defied a label as poor travellers to get past Kawerau 27-17 with Paroa and Taneatua also surprising against Papamoa and Judea respectively.

Greerton Marist continued their undefeated season record overwhelming Poroporo 70-10. Rangiuru moved into second place on the points tally, with a hard fought victory over Marist St Michaels 20-14, with Arataki cementing their place in the top four after overcoming Ngongotaha 22-7

Unbeaten Colts side Mount Maunganui continued on their winning way defeating Ngongotaha 31 nil. A clash between two sides near the top of the table saw Te Puke Sports sneak home from Whaka 19-17.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Baywide Results 24 May 2008

Section One:

Tauranga Sports 46 (Matt Hodson 2, Matt Biu, Culum Retallick, Brett Johnson, Eruera Haimona, Steven Wallace, Josh Hall tries; Haimona 2con, Sio Atelemo con) Waikite 12 (Dane Keepa, Mack Hudson tries; Hamu Hudson con). HT: 19-7.

Rangataua 30 (Glen Strang 2, Timoti Gardiner, John Kuka tries; Strang 2con 2pen) Kahukura 22 (Craig Aitu, Josh Rauluni, Charles Hubbard, Guku Shitsu tries; Hubbard con)

Te Puna 41 (Daniel Schuster 2, John Paerenga, John Brown, Quinton Gardiner, Aidan Kuka tries; Gardiner 4cons) Whakatane Marist 13 (Matt Te Pou try; Craig Edwards 2pen).

Whakarewarewa 26 (Teu Nafe 2, Hayden Baird, Wayne Hughson tries; Kelly Haimona 2pen) Te Puke 13 (Matt Wallis try; Brett McLeod 2pen con). HT: 18-13.

Opotiki 31 (Brian Davies 2, Matt Henwood, Te Rau Kurei, Rau Rangahua tries; Sam Howe 3con) Mount Maunganui 19 (Lance McDonald 2, Colin Bourke tries; Danny Morrison 2con) HT: 22-7.

Te Teko 18 (Tupu Burgess 2 tries; Ryan Hahipene 2pen con) Rotoiti 11 (John Versttynen try; Glen Martin 2pen)

Section Two:
Arataki 22 Ngongotaha 7, Greerton Marist 70 Poroporo 10, Reporoa 27 Kawerau 17, Paroa 20 Papamoa 13, Rangiuru 20 Marist St Michaels 14, Taneatua 14 Judea 12.

Colts: Te Teko 18 Arataki 9, Te Puke Sports 19 Whakarewarewa 17, Greerton Marist 13 Rotoiti 10, Rangataua 41 Kahukura 26, Tauranga Sports 59 Waikite 0, Mount Maunganui 31 Ngongotaha 0,Te Puna won by default.

Under 19:
Hauraki North 20 Te Puna 6, Taneatua 22 Opotiki 5.

Significant Encounters on the Horizon

Fri, 30 May 2008 17:16:53 +0100

The point’s ladder logjam in the Baywide section one competition has set up a number of must win games this Saturday (31 May 2008).

With just two rounds remaining, before the top eight to fight out the Baywide premier championship are confirmed - no match has more significance than the game in the Western Bay of Plenty between home side Rangataua and Te Teko from the Eastern Bay.

With the two teams sitting in sixth (Rangataua) and seventh (Te Teko) position respectively– the winner should book a berth in the top echelon, with the loser having to regroup, for a final effort in the last round.

The reward for success is provided by the team from the Eastern Bay. Four weeks ago Te Teko were winless sitting in eleventh place on the ladder. Four successive victories over Waikite, Te Puna, Whakatane Marist and last weeks up set of Rotoiti, see a premier championship spot on the horizon.

By contrast Rangataua have been in the top eight throughout the season. The return of Ruki Tipuna, and the accurate goal kicking of Glen Strang, has provided a platform for the team to perform.

Eighth placed Opotiki, who surprised with a victory over Mount Maunganui last weekend, face an uphill battle against the competition leaders. Whakarewarewa had been almost unstoppable this season, with just the blip of a narrow loss to Tauranga Sports, on their score sheet.

Another side needing to cause a upset, is Kahukura who will play Tauranga Sports, at the Tauranga Domain. The revelation of this year’s competition, may find the pace of the Tauranga loose forwards and outside backs, difficult to combat.

Te Puke Sports who are playing Te Puna under lights at Murray Salt Stadium on Friday evening should have a fast paced encounter. Mount Maunganui and Rotoiti who both sit in the top four should prove too strong for Waikite and Whakatane Marist respectively.

In section two Ngongotaha at home, will be looking to deprive Greerton Marist of the unbeaten record. While the Western Bay side have made the front running in the second echelon, Ngongotaha have suffered just two losses this season.

A good tussle should take place at the Gordon Spratt Reserve where home team Papamoa will take on Rangiuru. With both teams chasing a division one berth - Papamoa in fifth place need to upset Rangiuru who sit in second position.

Two other sides on the cusp of promotion to division one must win this weekend. Reporoa at home could account for Judea, with Kawerau needing to upset Arataki to have a chance of playing in the second echelon.

Baywide Section One Points Table

Whakarewarewa (41) Tauranga Sports (38) Mount Maunganui (28) Rotoiti (27) Te Puke Sports (25) Rangataua (22) Te Teko (21) Opotiki (20) Kahukura (19) Te Puna (15) Whakatane Marist (10) Waikite (4).

BOPRU Draws 31 May 2008

Section One: Friday 30 May – Te Puke Sports v Te Puna, Murray Salt Stadium 7.30pm - Saturday 31 May (All games 2.45pm) Tauranga Sports v Kahukura, Tauranga Domain; Waikite v Mount Maunganui, Bellvue Road; Rangataua v Te Teko, Te Ariki Park; Rotoiti v Whakatane Marist, Emery Park; Opotiki v Whakarewarewa, Opotiki Reserve.

Section Two: (All games 2.45pm) Ngongotaha v Greerton Marist, Ngongotaha Domain; Reporoa v Judea, Reporoa; Poroporo v Paroa; Poroporo Park; Papamoa v Rangiuru, Gordon Spratt Reserve; Marist St Michaels v Taneatua, Marist Park; Kawerau v Arataki, Firmin Field.

Colts: No Games.

Under 19: No Games.

Rangataua Win Mid-Table Clash

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 18:32:35 +0100

While the top five in the Baywide top echelon re-inked their premier championship invitations on Saturday (31 May 2008) - the mid table clash between Rangataua and Te Teko, produced one of the best games seen at Te Ariki Park, for many a day.

The Rangataua policy of throwing the ball around with abandon paid dividend with four tries. Wiremu Houia, Timoti Gardiner, Anaru Taute and John Ririnui touched down for five points apiece.

Te Teko were always in the game and crossed for three tries - however three penalties to John Ririnui, and two conversions from the boot of Glen Strang, saw Rangataua get home 36-19. The game which was vital to both sides top eight ambitions sees Rangataua book a premier championship berth, with Te Teko needing to win next weekend

Comprehensive victories told the story of the top five. Section one competition leader Whakarewarewa ran riot over Opotiki posting 71 unanswered points against the Eastern Bay team. Aliki Kisina galloped up the try scoring records dotting down five times, with Trent Vatselias grabbing three tries.

Second placed Tauranga Sports, who are lurking three points behind Whaka, had a field day against Kahukura at the Tauranga Domain. Thirteen Tauranga tries, told the story of a game that was one-way traffic, as they took out the encounter 89-7. Matt Hodson who has speed to burn grabbed three touchdowns, with Jason Karauria, Eru Haimona and David Johnson picking up a brace apiece.

In spite of a multitude of injuries, third placed Mount Maunganui returned home from Rotorua, with a good 55-18 win against Waikite under their belt. Rotoiti and Te Puke Sports, who sit comfortably in fourth and fifth place on the point’s table, also earned bonus points when they also posted solid victories. Te Puke Sports waltzed away from Te Puna 42-10 on Friday night with Rotoiti getting past Whakatane Marist 30-10.

In section two, Greerton Marist suffered their first loss of the season, when their colours were lowered by Ngongotaha. A fourteen-point lead to the Rotorua side at the break saw Greerton come back into the encounter, before Ngongotaha wrapped the match up 27-18.

In spite of the loss by Greerton both teams have qualified for division one that kicks off in two weeks. The two other teams from section two to earn promotion were also confirmed on Saturday

Both Arataki and Rangiuru made sure of playing in the second echelon championship with solid victories. Arataki defeated Kawerau 25-7 while Rangiuru won the Western Bay derby against Papamoa 36-17.

Other section two teams to win were Reporoa who defeated Judea 22-16, Poroporo who squeezed past Paroa 10-9 and Marist St Michaels who put Taneatua to the sword 41-7.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Baywide Results 31 May 2008

Tauranga Sports 89 (Matt Hodson 3, Jason Karauria 2, Eruera Haimona 2, David Johnson 2, Steven Wallace, Sio Atelemo, Ray Brown, Callum Armstrong; Haimona 10cons, Wallace 2cons) Kahukura 7 (Charles Hubbard try; Josh Rauluni con) HT 49-0

Whakarewarewa 71 Aliki Kisina 5, Trent Vatselias 3, Pauli Asaeli, Teu Nafe, Joe Savage tries; Kelly Haimona 7cons, Asaeli con) Opotiki 0. HT 40-0

Rangataua 36 (Wiremu Houia, Timoti Gardiner, Anaru Taute, John Ririnui tries; Glen Strang 2cons, Ririnui 3 pens) Te Teko 19 (Tipu Burgess, Junior Stowell, Dan Godbold tries; Ryan Hahipene 2cons)

Te Puke 42 (Alan Jarvis-Cook 2, PJ Gidlow, Craig Donovan, Brett McLeod tries; McLeod 3 pens 4 cons) Te Puna 10 Daniel Schuster try; Quentin Gardiner con pen) HT 18-3

Mount Maunganui 55 Waikite 18 (Mackie Jones 2, Tumoana Wijohn tries; John Wiringi pen)

Rotoiti 30 (Hakarangi Tichbourne, Whakataki Cunningham, Zac Hohneck, Glen Martin tries; Cunningham 2cons, Martin 2pens) Whakatane Marist 10 (Thomas Haney try; Greg Smith pen con)

Section Two: Ngongotaha 27 Greerton Marist 18, Reporoa 22 Judea 16, Poroporo 10 Paroa 9, Rangiuru 36 Papamoa 17, Marist St Michaels 41 Taneatua 7, Arataki 25 Kawerau 7.

Winner “Take All” Match at Kuirau Park

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 21:40:57 +0100

A winner take all contest will take centre stage this Saturday (7 June 2008) in a Baywide section one rugby match.

With the eight starters in the Baywide premier championship confirmed at the final whistle on Saturday – the section one encounter at Kuirau Park, has everything at stake for the two participants.

Opotiki and Kahukura, who sit in eight and ninth place on the point’s ladder entering the contest, have a simple agenda on Saturday. Win - and take a place in the premier championship.

However there are a number of different scenarios that will decide the last two places in the top eight. Victory for Te Teko (sitting in seventh position) over Te Puke would guarantee the Eastern Bay side a top echelon berth, with a place still likely with defeat.

If the eighth position is locked up at the final whistle on Saturday – calculators will come into play, with who beat whom, then for and against points if necessary, being the decider.

While both competition leaders Whakarewarewa, and Rangataua are safely in the premier championship round, there is plenty at stake at Puarenga Park. A Whaka victory will see the team wrap up first round trophy for the second successive year.

There is also a lot at stake in the Western Bay local derby between Tauranga Sports and Mount Maunganui. Along with plenty of pride, the Jordan Cup (Western Bay Sub-Union challenge trophy) will be on the line. In May last year Tauranga Sports relieved the Mount of the prestigious piece of silverware.

In other section one encounters Whakatane Marist will host Waikite with Te Puna meeting Rotoiti.

While the top four in section two, who will win promotion to the Baywide division one title race, were confirmed last weekend - there will be plenty of pride to play for this weekend.

Greerton Marist, who were beaten for the first time (by Ngongotaha) last weekend, will be looking to get back on the winning track against Kawerau. Second placed Rangiuru should be too good for Poroporo, while Ngongotaha and Arataki who round out the top four, will also be favoured to win.

Western Bay teams dominate the Baywide Colts competition, holding five of the top six positions. Competition leaders Mount Maunganui will be heavily favoured to extend their undefeated record against Waikite, at Blake Park.

A match with plenty at stake is the match-up between Whakarewarewa and Greerton Marist who are locked together in fourth place.

Baywide Section One Points Table

Whakarewarewa (46) Tauranga Sports (43) Mount Maunganui (33) Rotoiti (32) Te Puke Sports (30) Rangataua (27) Te Teko (21) Opotiki (20) Kahukura (19) Te Puna (15) Whakatane Marist (10) Waikite (4).

BOPRU Draws 7 June 2008

Section One (All games 2.45pm) Whakatane Marist v Waikite, Rugby Park; Te Puna v Rotoiti, Maramatanga Park; Mount Maunganui v Tauranga Sports, Blake Park; Te Teko v Te Puke Sports, Dunderland Park; Kahukura v Opotiki, Kuirau Park; Whakarewarewa v Rangataua, Puarenga Park.

Section Two (All games 2.45pm) Arataki v Reporoa, Grenada Park; Paroa v Ngongotaha, Lawson Park; Rangiuru v Poroporo, Jamieson Oval; Judea v Marist St Michaels, Maharaia Winiata Park; Greerton Marist v Kawerau, Greerton Park; Taneatua v Papamoa, Taneatua Domain.

Colts (All games 1pm) Mount Maunganui v Waikite, Blake Park; Greerton Marist v Whakarewarewa, Greerton Park; Te Teko v Rangataua, Dunderdale Park; Kahukura v Tauranga Sports, Kuirau Park; Whakatane Marist v Rotoiti, Rugby Park; Ngongotaha v Te Puna, Ngongotaha Domain; Arataki v Te Puke Sports, Grenada Park.

Under 19 (All games 1pm) Taneatua v Te Puna, Taneatua Domain; Hauraki North v Greerton Marist, Waitakaruru Domain; Opotiki the bye.

Western BOP (All games 1pm) Greerton Marist v Mount Maunganui, Greerton Park; Arataki v Te Puke Sports, Grenada Park; Eastern Districts v Rangataua, Paengaroa Domain; Te Puna v Matakana Island, Maramatanga Park; Tauranga Sports the bye.

Central BOP Final (Game 1pm) Waikite v Galatea, Bellvue Road.

Eastern BOP (Game 1pm) Paroa v Waiohau, Lawson Park; Opotiki bye.

Steamers in Wasps clothing buzzing

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 10:51:18 +0100

Steamers in Wasps clothing buzzing

05.06.2008

by Craig Tiriana at Waikato Stadium

Bay of Plenty got their 2008 representative programme under way with a 36-20 win against the Harlequins in Hamilton last night.

With their side playing as the Wasps as part of the Waikato-based Harlequins club's 70th anniversary, most of the post-match celebrating was being done by Bay of Plenty Steamers coaching staff Kevin Schuler and his assistant, Steve Milne.

Their team had the best of most of the game and ran in six tries to four, the best being their last sparked by outstanding No 8 Colin Bourke. He gathered a kick inside his own 22 and beat half a dozen defenders in a run of more than 50 metres before throwing a huge spiral pass that allowed winger/fullback Lance MacDonald to scamper away to the line.

Along with busy centre Cory Aporo, they provided the class in a workmanlike Wasps performance with which Schuler was happy.

"There were pretty simple messages for the guys out there," Schuler said.

"We've put [the squad] through a bit over the last six months. It was a chance for them to get that confidence from the hard work they've done and put their hands up. As a group, I think they showed a real collective intensity in that first half, there were plenty of gaps, as always when you make a few changes there's a bit of disruption but they hung in tight and got the result."

Schuler believed they were tested mentally and physically and stood up against what resembled a Waikato Development team.

The Wasps forwards set a good platform for the backs. The lineout and scrum were sound, although at times the defence got out of synch. All 26 players in the Wasps squad got game time.

They led 24-10 at halftime and had a firm grip on the result inside the 10th minute following tries to Aporo and Hadyn Baird.

Prop Joe Savage and lock Cullum Rettalick left the field and flanker Matt Henwood was carried off with a severely damaged ankle inside 20 minutes. After Bay of Plenty went through 39 players in last year's Air New Zealand Cup campaign it appeared the theme was spilling into 2008.

However, Rettalick reappeared and Savage - who arrived from North Harbour in the off-season - succumbed to the "bot" which also forced his Whakarewarewa teammate Kelly Haimona out of the side.

The second spell started like the first with Wasps scoring, replacement Toby Arnold running into a big hole, to start things off. Harlequins came back with two more before Bourke's effort snuffed out the final resistance.

The second leg of the Wasps' pre-season matches is next Tuesday in Rotorua where they will play Hawke's Bay's Saracens at 2pm.

* Scorers:

Wasps 36 (Cory Aporo, Hadyn Baird, Colin Bourke, Ray Brown, Toby Arnold, Lance MacDonald tries; Ruki Tipuna 3 con) Harlequins 20 (Armyn Sanders, Jordan Smilers, Daniel Stevenson, Caleb Smith tries). HT: 24-10.

Baywide Premier Championship Contenders Confirmed

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 12:06:27 +0100

The race for the last two places in the Baywide premier championship went right down to the wire on Saturday (7 June 2008).

In the final round of the section one competition Te Teko, Opotiki and Kahukura were chasing the last two top echelon positions. Eastern Bay side Te Teko took charge of their own destiny against Te Puke at Dunderdale Park.

In front of their vocal home supporters Te Teko booked their premier berth grinding out an 18-10 victory over Te Puke Sports. Scott Sutherland and Mikaere Ngamotu crossed for tries for the home side, with ever-reliable goal kicker Ryan Hahipene booting home two penalties and a conversion.

In a winner take all encounter for the last top eight position - Kahukura and Opotiki went head to head at Kuirau Park. In a match of real intensity throughout Opotiki sneaked home with a 19-17 victory to leave Kahukura with visions of “so close but so far away”.

Three tries apiece, told the story of a game that went all the way to the wire, with the difference being an extra conversion to Opotiki sharp shooter Sam Howe.

Whakarewarewa were taken all the way by Rangataua before clinching the first round trophy. Trailing by a point at the break, the home side edged past the Western Bay visitors in the second spell, to take out the game 22-18.

A minor surprise resulted in the Western Bay local derby with Mount Maunganui defeating Tauranga Sports 28-24. The result returns the Jordan Cup (Western BOP challenge trophy) to the Mount trophy cabinet.

In other top echelon matches Whakatane Marist defeated Waikite 25-22 with Rotoiti cementing fourth place getting past Te Puna 21-10.

While the section two top four was confirmed last week - Paroa caused a minor surprise holding third placed Ngongotaha to a 12 all draw. The other division one bound teams all posted victories. Rangiuru demolished Poroporo 62-5, Greerton Marist defeated Kawerau 40 nil with Arataki getting past Reporoa 30-7.

The formbook counted for little in the Colts competition with a number of surprises. Greerton Marist who were locked in fourth with Whakarewarewa amazed their loyal supporters with 35-5 win over the Rotorua side.

Te Teko was another to get past a more favoured team when the beat Rangataua 29 nil. Competition leader Mount Maunganui had little trouble with Waikite winning 77-10 with Tauranga Sports also posting a big victory beating Kahukura 89-0.

Bay of Plenty Baywide Results 7 June 2008

Section One:

Mount Maunganui 28 (Shane Manu, Lance MacDonald, Cory Aporo tries; Colin Bourke 2pen con, Danny Morrison con pen) Tauranga Sports 24 (Ray Brown, Toby Arnold, Matt Hodson, Steven Wallace tries; Eruera Haimona 2con). HT: 10-8.

Te Teko 18 (Scott Sutherland, Mikaere Ngamotu tries; Ryan Hahipene 2pen con) Te Puke 10 (Craig Donovan try; Brett McLeod con pen).

Whakatane Marist 38 (Max Bullivant 2, Ryan Lambert, Peter Love, Julian Reid, Jeremy Bell tries; Craig Edwards 4con) Waikite 22 (Mike Miller 2, Tony Lawrence, James O'Neill tries; Joe Curtis 2con)

Opotiki 19 (Hazley Moore, Nick McCain tries, penalty try; Sam Howe 2con) Kahukura 17 (Josh Rauluni, Robert Thomson, Mike Carle tries; Rauluni 1con) HT 12-7

Whakarewarewa 22 Chris Van der Vlught, Tofu Pomale, Trent Vatselias tries; Kelly Haimona 2con, pen) Rangataua 18 (Paul Pou, Piripi Keno tries; John Ririnui 2pen con). HT: 7-8.

Rotoiti 21 (Dustin Buckley, Matt Landers tries; Whakataki Cunningham con 3pens) Te Puna 10 (Daniel Schuster, John Brown tries) HT 13-5

Section Two: Rangiuru 62 Poroporo 5, Marist St Michaels 28 Judea 20, Greerton Marist 40 Kawerau 0, Paroa 12 Ngongotaha 12, Papamoa 64 Taneatua 0, Arataki 30 Reporoa 7.

Colts: Mount Maunganui 77 Waikite 10, Greerton Marist 35 Whakarewarewa 5, Te Teko 29 Rangataua 0, Tauranga Sports 89 Kahukura 0, Te Puke Sports 22 Arataki 17, Rotoiti won by default.

Wasps Take Part in High Scoring Encounter

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 21:58:12 +0100

The Bay of Plenty representative rugby build-up continued on Tuesday (10 June 2008) against the (Hawkes Bay) Saracens at the Rotorua International Stadium.

Wearing the colours of the Wasps, a Bay of Plenty selection were defeated by the Hawkes Bay visitors 61-45, in a high scoring encounter. The match was the second in the series that will result in the announcement of the Bay of Plenty Steamers

A strong Hawkes Bay unit started with a hiss and a roar - with the Bay representatives 21 nil down after 13 minutes. The visitor’s forwards continued to make the early running with the scoreboard showing 35-7 at the quarter way mark.

The fight back came with the Wasps forwards starting to win quality ball, which resulted in the ball moving along the home teams backline. Cory Aporo, who was in sparkling form, scored two first half tries, with Matt Hodson also grabbing two touchdowns.

Down nineteen points at the break the Wasps continued their assault on the opposition line in the second spell – winning the second half. Cory Aporo picked up his third try in the second spell, with Toby Arnold and Sio Atelemo also dotting down.

Wasps Manager Sean Horan said, “the game was a good hit out with the selectors able to see where the players performance levels were at”. “The encounter also was a good gauge for the players to measure the standard required for the Air NZ Cup”.

The result against the Saracens follows last week’s first game where the Wasps defeated the (Waikato) Harlequins 36-20.

The third match in the representative build-up will take place at Opotiki next Wednesday (18 June 2008) with the Bay fifteen taking on Poverty Bay.

Results

Saracens 61 Wasps 45 (Cory Aporo 3, Matt Hodson 2, Toby Arnold, Sio Atelemo tries; Kelly Haimona 5 cons)

Te Waiariki Colts to Curtain Raise for New Zealand Maori

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 22:00:05 +0100

The Bay Of Plenty Union has named the Te Waiariki Colts Squad for a match versus Tainui Waka Maori Colts on the 21^st June @ Waikato Stadium 2.30pm kick off.

This game is the curtain raiser to the New Z ealand Maori vs Samoa, Pacific Nations Cup fixture.

This match is a fantastic opportunity for a number of promising young Bay of Plenty players to perform on a National Stage. The squad is made up of players from 12 Bay of Plenty Clubs and 1 High School from the far reaches of the Bay of Plenty.

Te Waiariki Colts Squad;

Forwards

Kane Hames Rotoiti, Haimona Brown Rotoiti, Chas Rangitoheriri Ngongotaha, Luke Grant Whakatane Marist, Ricky Abrahams Rangataua, Hori Leef Te Puna, James Riddell Mt Maunganui, Peter White Rotoiti, Mikaere Ngamotu Te Teko, Josh Campion Whakarewarewa, Hohepa Goebel Tauranga Sports, Bruce Ohlsen Tauranga Sports, Mackie Jones Waikite.

Backs

Josh Hall Tauranga Sports, Curtis Van Der Heyden Rotoiti, Whakataki Cunningham Rotoiti, John Ririnui Rangataua, Beu Kiel Kahukura, Dion Koopu Apanui, Ariki Henry Te Teko, Quentin Gardner Rangataua, John Wiringi Waikite, Akida Mako Rangataua, Kris Miller Western Heights HS.

Management: Kevin Lee (Head Coach ), Daryl Going (Assistant Coach ) Darrel Shelford (Technical Advisor ) Kyle Barton (Manager), Henry Pryor (Kaumatua),

Bay of Plenty XV to play Poverty Bay in Opotiki

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 22:30:49 +0100

Bay Of Plenty Steamers coach Kevin Schuler and his assistant Steve Miln have named their Squad for the Bay XV match against Poverty Bay in Opotiki on Wednesday the 18 June (kick-off 2pm @ Opotiki Sports ground, Opotiki).

Bay of Plenty XV Squad

Forwards;

Ray Brown (TGA Sports), James Mcgougan (TGA Sports), Dan Schuster (Te Puna), Noah Lealoa (TGA Sports), Dean Elmiger (Opotiki), Hikairo Moorehead (Te Puna), Alan Davis (TGA Sports), Matatu Herewini (Rotoiti), Josh Katene-Roberts (Te Teko), Cullum Armstrong (TGA Sports), Dallas Cole (Rangataua), Aiden Kelly (Te Puke Sports), Dwayne Waititi (Whakarewarewa), Dave Whitcliffe-Davies (Te Puke Sports)

Backs;

Glenn Martin (Rotoiti), Chris Van der Vlugt (Whakarewarewa) Marty Bourke (Mt Maunganui), PJ Gidlow (Te Puke Sports), Wayne Hughson (Whakarewarewa), Quintin Gardiner (Te Puna), Hayden Baird (Whakarewarewa), Trent Vatseilas (Whakarewarewa), Timoti Gardiner (Rangataua), Aleki Kinisi (Whakarewarewa), Matt Hodson (TGA Sports), Tom Yates (Taneatua).

Management: Bob Moorehead (head coach), Dave Johnson (assistant coach) Ron Rae (Assistant coach), Bruce Gordon (Manager) TBC (physio)

Baywide Championship Title Race Commences

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 23:38:49 +0100

With the preliminary contests completed, the main event in Baywide club rugby kicks off this Saturday (14 June 2008). The top eight from the section one competition will now be focusing on the Baywide Premier championship title.

First round winner Whakarewarewa will take center stage in Rotorua, taking on long time rivals Rotoiti at Puarenga Park. The 2006 Baywide premier champions waltzed their way through the first round competition - with just one narrow loss (to Tauranga Sports) on their ledger card.

A real strength of Rotoiti in recent seasons has been the pathway from the Colts to the senior side. A considerable number of this year’s team has made the transition from last years Baywide Colts championship winning team. While a stern contest is likely, Whaka have had the wood on their rivals in recent games between the two sides.

Defending champions Tauranga Sports, take on the real improver in Baywide rugby in the last twelve months – Opotiki Sports. The team from the Eastern Bay took the last spot in the top echelon, when they beat Kahukura 19-17 in a real thriller last weekend.

There is sure to be a large crowd on hand at the Murray Salt Stadium in Te Puke when Te Puke Sports hosts Mount Maunganui. An added impetus to the match will be the Jordan Cup on the line, after Mount Maunganui relieved Tauranga Sports of the Western Bay challenge trophy, last weekend.

Another side to impress this season is Te Teko, who will play Rangataua. After sitting at the bottom of the point’s ladder, the Eastern Bay side put together four successive victories, which finally resulted in a top eight position. Rangataua were the quiet achiever of the first round competition, and will be looking to improve on fifth place last season.

Division one, which matches the bottom four of section one, with the top four from section two, always produces an interesting championship title race.

There will be no more interest than the match-up between Kahukura and Ngongotaha. The Ngongotaha club, who were once one of the heavyweights of Baywide rugby before almost dropping from sight, have had a real resurgence this season - with Kahukura unlucky not to make the top eight.

Rangiuru and Greerton Marist, who finished at the top of the section two ladder, will play Te Puna and Waikite respectively - with Whakatane Marist hosting Arataki.

Season results suggest that Papamoa will be the team to beat in the division two championship. This weekend they travel to play fellow Western Bay side Judea at Maharaia Winiata Park. Other div two matches will see Taneatua host Kawerau, Reporoa play Marist St Michaels and Paroa at home to Poroporo.

Division three is always an interesting grade, with a wide diversity of teams. Apanui, who is based at Te Kaha, and Matakana Island, come from the extremities of the region. This Saturday Matakana Island host Eastern Districts, Matata face Ruatoki, Galatea take on Edgecumbe with Apanui at home to Eastern Pirates.

BOPRU Draws 14 June 2008

Premier Division (All games 2.45pm) Whakarewarewa v Rotoiti, Puarenga Park; Tauranga Sports v Opotiki, Tauranga Domain; Te Puke Sports v Mount Maunganui, Murray Salt Stadium; Te Teko v Rangataua, Dunderdale Park.

Division One (All games 2.45pm) Kahukura v Ngongotaha, Kuirau Park; Te Puna v Greerton Marist, Maramatanga Park; Whakatane Marist v Arataki, Rugby Park; Waikite v Rangiuru, Bellvue Road.

Division Two (All games 2.45pm) Taneatua v Kawerau, Taneatua Domain; Reporoa v Marist St Michaels, Reporoa; Judea v Papamoa, Maharaia Winiata Park; Paroa v Poroporo, Lawson Park.

Division Three (All games 2.45pm unless specified) Matakana Island v Eastern Districts, Matakana Island – 1pm; Apanui v Eastern Pirates, Te Kaha; Matata v Ruatoki, Richmond Park; Galatea v Edgecumbe, Galatea Domain.

Colts (All games 1pm) Ngongotaha v Kahukura, Ngongotaha Domain; Te Puna v Rotoiti, Maramatanga Park; Tauranga Sports v Arataki, Tauranga Domain; Rangataua v Whakarewarewa, Te Ariki Park; Mount Maunganui v Greerton Marist, Blake Park; Waikite v Whakatane Marist, Bellvue Road; Te Puke Sports v Te Teko, Murray Salt Stadium.

Under 19 (All games 1pm) Greerton Marist v Taneatua, Greerton Park; Te Puna v Opotiki, Maramatanga Park; Hauraki North the bye.

Baywide Intensity Picks Up

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 08:39:36 +0100

The start of the Baywide premier championship on Saturday (14 June 2008) saw the intensity ratchet up several notches - with all four teams posting victories adding a bonus point.

At Puarenga Park, 2006 Baywide champions Whakarewarewa laid down the gauntlet to the other contenders, brushing aside the challenge from archrival Rotoiti. A double to Teu Nafe with Hayden Baird, Kelly Haimona and Hamish Lockwood also touching down contributed to the 32-12 victory.

While the first half of the encounter was relatively even with Whaka holding a 17-12 advantage at the break – the home team upped the pressure in the second spell. Hakarangi Tichbourne and Tommy Tiaki crossed for Rototi tries with John Westeynen adding a conversion.

Te Puke Sports who posted a decisive 29-3 win over Mount Maunganui provided further proof of the intensity of the premier title race. Just five weeks ago the Mount beat Te Puke 32-24.

In another game that saw the first half fairly even with a 10-3 score line at the break, the home side cut loose in the second spell. Leading Baywide point’s scorer Brett McLeod increased his tally with two tries and two conversions - with Aaron Sutherland, Josh Harrison and Alan Jarvis-Cook also touching down.

The match between defending champions Tauranga Sports and Opotiki was mainly a dour encounter before Tauranga prevailed 34-14, while Rangataua proved too good for Te Teko 31-16.

In division one Ngongotaha who defeated Kahukura 28-9 provided a significant statement. The former Baywide heavyweights showed that they have top echelon aspirations - with a good victory over the team that was unlucky not to make the premier division

Two teams that had been playing in the top echelon before dropping to div one posted significant victories. Whakatane Marist ran away from Arataki 45 nil with Te Puna defeating Greerton Marist 51-20. Waikite posted their first win of the season just getting past Rangiuru 31-26.

Kawerau made their division two aspiration crystal clear posting a decisive 48 nil victory over Taneatua. Other sides to post wins in the first round of the championship were Judea who upset Papamoa 27-15, Paroa and Reporoa.

In the division three Baywide qualifying competition Eastern Districts squeezed past Matakana Island 12-8 with Ruatoki and Edgecumbe also winning.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Baywide Results 14 June 2008

Premier:
Te Puke 29 (Brett McLeod 2, Aaron Sutherland, Josh Harrison, Alan Jarvis-Cook tries; McLeod 2con) Mount Maunganui 3 (Danny Morrison pen). HT: 10-3.
Rangataua 31 (Jason Hona 2, Timoti Gardiner, Anaru Taute tries; John Ririnui 4con pen) Te Teko 16 (Ariki Henry try; Scott Sutherland 3pen con). HT: 21-7.
Tauranga Sports 34 (Toby Arnold 2, Josh Hall 2, Steven Wallace, Matt Hodson tries; Eruera Haimona 2cons) Opotiki 14 (Roha Maxwell, Brian Davies tries; Sam Howe 2cons). HT: 17-7.
Whakarewarewa 32 (Teu Nafe 2, Hayden Baird, Kelly Haimona, Hamish Lockwood tries; Haimona con, pen, James Tuapawa con) Rotoiti 12 (Hakarangi Tichborne, Tommy Tiake tries; John Westeynen con). HT: 17-12.

Division One: Ngongotaha 28 Kahukura 9, Te Puna 51 Greerton Marist 20, Whakatane Marist 45 Arataki 0, Waikite 31 Rangiuru 26.

Division Two: Kawerau 48 Taneatua 0, Reporoa 30 Marist St Michaels 5, Judea 27 Papamoa 15, Paroa 23 Poroporo 0.

Division Three: Eastern Districts 12 Matakana Island 8, Edgecumbe 43 Galatea 17, Ruatoki 41 Matata 17.

Colts: Ngongotaha 35 Kahukura 27, Te Puna 24 Rotoiti 14, Tauranga Sports 13 Arataki 0, Whakarewarewa 21 Rangataua 10, Te Puke Sports 20 Te Teko 8.

Under 19: Greerton Marist 23 Taneatua 0, Opotiki 48 Te Puna 31.

Baywide Rugby Has a Sense of Urgency

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:58:32 +0100

While it is just the second round of the Baywide championships there is already a sense of urgency within some teams.

In the premier division, there is no more important match-up than the encounter at Blake Park this Saturday (21 June 2008) between Mount Maunganui and Rangataua. A longtime rivalry will be rekindled, with Mount Maunganui likely to be extremely keen to get points on the leader board, after last weekends defeat handed out by Te Puke Sports

Rangataua, have been the quiet achiever in the top echelon of Baywide rugby in the last couple of seasons. A comfortable mid table finish in the section one qualifying competition, backed up their fifth place in last years premier championship.

Last weekend the Te Ariki Park based side comfortably accounted for Te Teko 31-16. The first round meeting between the two clubs resulted in a reasonably narrow 18-11 win to the Mount.

There will also be plenty of interest in the Rotoiti match against defending champions Tauranga Sports. The match to be played at Rotoiti’s stronghold at Emery Park could be waged up front, with both sides having solid forward packs.

The two other premier encounters, should see Whakarewarewa prove to strong for Te Teko in the Eastern Bay, with Te Puke Sports likely to dispatch Opotiki Sports.

Last week, Ngongotaha put their hand up as genuine championship contenders in division one, with a solid 28-9 win over Kahukura. The Ngongotaha side appears determined to restore the club to the top echelon of Baywide rugby. This weekend they will meet near neighbor Waikite in a battle for local pride.

In other div one games Greerton Marist host Rangiuru, Whakatane Marist could have a real battle with Te Puna in the Eastern Bay, with Arataki hosting Kahukura.

There will be real interest in the division two clash between hosts Kawerau and Judea. While the Eastern Bay side had a relatively slow start to the season, they showed last Saturday that they will be the team to beat in the grade, with a comprehensive 48 nil victory over Taneatua. In the opening championship round Judea upset Papamoa 27-15.

An added edge to the division three two race, is that the team that finishes last is automatically relegated back to sub-union rugby. Papamoa should get past Taneatua, Marist St Michaels could have a close encounter with Poroporo, while Reporoa face a long trip to play Paroa at home.

Division three is the opportunity for teams to progress from sub-union rugby, to the second echelon of the Baywide competitions. This Saturday Eastern Pirates and Eastern Districts will meet in Rotorua, Apanui host Matata, Matakana Island will journey to Edgecumbe, with Ruatoki and Galatea meeting at Tuhoe Park.

A logjam at the top of the Colts leader board has set up a top of the table clash. Mount Maunganui who suffered their first defeat last weekend meet Tauranga Sports at the Tauranga Domain.

BOPRU Draws 21 June 2008

Premier Division (All games 2.45pm) Rotoiti v Tauranga Sports, Emery Park; Te Teko v Whakarewarewa, Dunderdale Park; Mount Maunganui v Rangataua, Blake Park; Te Puke Sports v Opotiki, Murray Salt Stadium.

Division One (All games 2.45pm) Greerton Marist v Rangiuru, Greerton Park; Ngongotaha v Waikite, Ngongotaha Domain; Whakatane Marist v Te Puna, Rugby Park; Arataki v Kahukura, Grenada Park.

Division Two (All games 2.45pm) Kawerau v Judea, Firmin Field; Marist St Michaels v Poroporo, Marist Park; Papamoa v Taneatua, Gordon Spratt Reserve; Paroa v Reporoa, Lawson Park.

Division Three (All games 2.45pm unless specified) Eastern Pirates v Eastern Districts, Neil Hunt Park; Apanui v Matata, Te Kaha; Edgecumbe v Matakana Island, Edgecumbe Domain, Ruatoki v Galatea, Tuhoe Park.

Colts (All games 1pm) Rangataua v Ngongotaha, Te Ariki Park; Tauranga Sports v Mount Maunganui, Tauranga Domain; Te Puna v Te Puke Sports, Maramatanga Park; Rotoiti v Kahukura, Emery Park; Waikite v Te Teko, Bellvue Road; Whakarewarewa v Arataki, Puarenga Park; Greerton Marist the bye.

Under 19 (All games 1pm) Taneatua v Hauraki North, Taneatua Domain; Opotiki v Greerton Marist, Opotiki Domain; Te Puna the bye.

2008 Steamers Air New Zealand Cup Squad

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 09:48:41 +0100

Bay Of Plenty Steamers Head Coach, Kevin Schuler and his Assistant, Steve Miln, have named their 2008 Air New Zealand Cup Squad.

The selection of the Steamers squad follows an extensive off season training program, which

included the Bay of Plenty Sub Union series, and the recently completed Wasps and Bay XV

fixtures.

The 2008 Steamers Squad is;

Forwards;

John Pareanga Te Puna

Marcel Cummings-Toone Tauranga Sports

James McGougan Tauranga Sports

Matthew Wallis Te Puke Sports

Joseph Savage Whakarewarewa

Arden David Marist St Pats-Wellington (Loan Player)

Culum Rettalick Tauranga Sports

John Moore Ngongotaha

Josh Katene-Roberts Te Teko

Aiden Kuka Te Puna

Solomon King Te Puke Sports

Colin Bourke Mount Maunganui

Luke Braid Tauranga Sports

Tanerau Latimer (captain) Rangiuru

Backs;

Jamie Nutbrown (vice-captain) Te Puke Sports

Josh Hall Tauranga Sports

Mike Delany Mount Maunganui

Kelly Haimona Whakarewarewa

Paula Asaeli Whakarewarewa

Cory Aporo Mount Maunganui

Zar Lawrence TBC

Jason Hona Rangataua

Teu Nafe Whakarewarewa

Lance McDonald Mount Maunganui

Toby Arnold Tauranga Sports

Nigel Hunt TBC

Not considered through injury:

Matt Vant Leven Whakarewarewa

Charles Baxter Te Puke Sports

Wayne Hughson Whakarewarewa

The Squad will assemble on Monday 23 June and will have an official team launch at the

Papamoa Tavern on Friday 27 June.

The Squad will prepare for pre season fixtures against;

• Manawatu at FMG Stadium, Palmerston North on the 11 July

• North Harbour at Bay Park, Mt Maunganui on the 18 July

• Waikato at Waikato Stadium, Hamilton on the 24 July

The Steamers launch the 2008 Air New Zealand Cup competition with an away match to Tasman on Thursday 31 July in Blenhiem.

Steamers Head Coach Herb Schuler said “We have challenged our players during the off season to raise their physical and mental application. We are encouraged with what we have seen at training and in recent games. We are confident that the players selected will do the Bay Proud.”

For more information or comments please contact Kevin Schuler, Steamers Head Coach on 0274 788 198

Rangataua Lay Their Cards on The Table

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 17:09:43 +0100

Rangataua laid their championship aspiration cards on the table at Blake Park on Saturday (21 June 2008) cruising away from Mount Maunganui 36-12.

In front of a large contingent of Rangataua supporters, the visitors not only picked up a bonus point - but also found themselves in the unknown territory of being equal top of the Baywide premier champion points ladder.

A 13-12 advantage to Rangataua at the break reflected a relatively even first half. Tries to Piripi Keno and Wiremu Houia, and a Ruki Tipuna penalty for the visitors, were countered by the Mount kickers with four penalty goals.

The second half was one-way traffic with Rangataua adding twenty-three points. Second half (converted) touchdowns, were awarded to Paul Pou and Jason Hona, with Shane Ririnui slotting two long-range penalty goals.

Whakarewarewa continued their steamroller charge on the championship, with another solid victory. While defeating Te Teko 45-23 the home side showed plenty of fortitude running in three tries.

Scott Mayhew and Aleki Kisina led the way for Whaka dotting down twice apiece with Tofu Pomale, Pauli Asaeli and Trent Vatselias also touching down. The Te Teko try scorers were Tupu Burgess, Darryl Greenfield and Ariki Henry.

Defending champions Tauranga Sports had a good battle with Rotoiti at Emery Park before prevailing 22-10, while Te Puke Sports proved too good for Opotiki winning 46-15.

In division one, Whakatane Marist and Waikite kept their ledger card unblemished with solid victories. Eastern Bay team Whakatane Marist ran away from Te Puna 45-22 with Waikite getting Past Ngongotaha 17-6. Kahukura defeated Arataki 18-10 while Greerton Marist got back on the winning trail with a 20-3 win over Rangiuru.

Kawerau showed that they are the team to beat in the division two title race with a 29-10 win from Judea. Other teams to post victories were Marist St Michaels, Paroa and Papamoa.

Te Kaha based team Apanui made a real statement in the Baywide qualifying division three championship. Playing at home on the East Coast they ran over Matata posting 72 unanswered points. Other sides to win were Eastern Districts, Edgecumbe and Ruatoki.

In the Colts competition, Te Puke Sports hit the lead for the first time when they ground out a 22-20 win over Te Puna. Tauranga Sports provided former competition leader Mount Maunganui with their second successive defeat winning 37-10.

Greerton Marist, finished the Under 19 round robin competition on top of the table defeating Opotiki 26-12, with Hauraki North getting past Taneatua 27-5

Bay of Plenty Baywide Results 21 June 2008

Baywide premier:

Tauranga Sports 22 (Toby Arnold, Matt Hodson tries; Eruera Haimona 4pen) Rotoiti 10 (Luther Robinson try; Jamahl Moke-Khan con, Glen Martin pen). HT: 11-3.

Whakarewarewa 45 (Scott Mayhew 2, Aleki Kisina 2, Tofu Pomale, Paula Asaeli, Trent Vatselias tries; James Tuapawa 3con, Kelly Haimona 2con) Te Teko 23 (Tupu Burgess, Darryl Greenfield, Ariki Henry tries; Ryan Hahipene con 2pen). HT: 19-10.

Rangataua 36 (Piripi Keno, Wiremu Houia, Paul Pou, Jason Hona tries; Ruki Tipuna pen con, Shane Ririnui 3pens con) Mount Maunganui 12 (Colin Bourke 3pens, Danny Morrison pen). HT: 13-12.

Te Puke Sports 46 (Alan Jarvis-Cook 2, Josh Harrison, Ross Nicolaas, PJ Gidlow, Craig Donovan tries; Brett McLeod 5con 2pen) Opotiki 15.

Division One: Greerton Marist 20 Rangiuru 3, Waikite 17 Ngongotaha 6, Whakatane Marist 45 Te Puna 22, Kahukura 16 Arataki 10.

Division Two: Kawerau 29 Judea 10, Marist St Michaels 16 Poroporo 10, Paroa 27 Reporoa 0, Papamoa won by default.

Division Three: Apanui 72 Matata 0, Edgecumbe 18 Matakana Island 14, Ruatoki 36 Galatea 24, Eastern Districts 31 Eastern Pirates 6.

Colts: Ngongotaha 17 Rangataua 12, Tauranga Sports 37 Mount Maunganui 10, Te Puke Sports 22 Te Puna 20, Whakarewarewa 25 Arataki 5, Rotoiti 64 Kahukura 0.

Under 19: Hauraki North 27 Taneatua 5, Greerton Marist 26 Opotiki 12.

Unbeaten Teams Clash at Te Ariki Park

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 10:44:03 +0100

Two of the unbeaten teams in the Baywide Premier championship clash at Te Ariki Park this Saturday (28 June 2008). At stake for the winner, is a big leap forward towards the Baywide Semi-Finals, to be played on the first Saturday in August.

Both Rangataua and Te Puke Sports have posted two bonus point victories in the opening rounds, of the top echelon championship.

This season Rangataua have been the quiet achiever of Baywide rugby grafting wins with little fanfare. Sixth place in the championship qualifying competition paved the way for a charge on the Baywide Semi-finals. Last week, the Te Ariki Park unit impressed in dispatching the 2005 Baywide titleholders Mount Maunganui 36-12 at Blake Park.

Perennial semi-finalists Te Puke Sports have again made their mark with a number of impressive victories. Last weekend they shut out Eastern Bay contender Opotiki 46-15. The Te Puke side has a game winner in Brett McLeod who leads the Bawide individual points tally. McLeod, who is a sharp shooter with his kicking boots, also has eight touchdowns to his credit.

Over five hundred points this season suggest that first round winner Whakarewarewa take little sympathy on their opponents. This weekend they travel to the Western Bay to face Mount Maunganui at Blake Park. Only a supreme optimist would predict a Mount win - with the home side struggling with injuries.

Defending champions Tauranga Sports struggled for superiority last weekend against Rotoiti before prevailing. This Saturday the Tauranga team hosts Te Teko at the Tauranga Domain. While Te Teko has punched above its weight all season, they are unlikely to topple the current titleholders.

Rounding out the top echelon is the encounter in the Eastern Bay between Opotiki and Rototiti.

The penultimate round of the Colts division will see plenty of determination in the middle of the table. Ngongotaha, Te Teko, Rangataua and Rotoiti are scrapping for the last two places in the top eight, that will go on to contest the championship title.

This Saturday seventh placed Ngongotaha, will meet Whakarewarewa who sit two places above them on the point’s ladder. Te Teko and Rototi will go head to head with the winner greatly improving their chances of playing in the championship.

Rangataua, who sit on the cusp of the top eight face a real battle against the big improver of this years Colts competition. Greerton Marist provided previously unbeaten Mount Maunganui with their first loss of the season - and may extinguish Rangataua’s chance to play in the top echelon championship round.

At the top end of the table Tauranga Sports could have a battle of attrition with Te Puna, while Mount Maunganui is likely to put two successive losses behind them against Kahukura.

The business end of the season has come in the Under 19 grade with the semi-finals being played out at Greerton Park. Top qualifier Greerton Marist should get past Taneatua with Hauraki North and Opotiki likely to battle down to the wire.

BOPRU Draws 28 June 2008

Premier Division (All games 2.45pm) Opotiki v Rotoiti, Opotiki Reserve; Rangataua v Te Puke Sports, Te Ariki Park; Tauranga Sports v Te Teko, Tauranga Domain; Mount Maunganui v Whakarewarewa, Blake Park.

Division One (All games 2.45pm) Kahukura v Whakatane Marist, Kuirau Park; Rangiuru v Ngongotaha, Jamieson Oval; Te Puna v Waikite, Mararamatanga Park; Greerton Marist v Arataki, Greerton Park.

Division Two (All games 2.45pm) Judea v Paroa, Maharaia Winiata Park; Reporoa v Kawerau, Reporoa; Poroporo v Papamoa, Poroporo Park; Taneatua v Marist St Michaels, Taneatua Domain.

Division Three (All games 2.45pm unless specified) Matata v Eastern Pirates, Richmond Park; Eastern Districts v Edgecumbe, Paengaroa Domain; Galatea v Apanui, Galatea Domain; Matakana Island v Ruatoki, Matakana Island – 1pm.

Colts (All games 1pm) Te Teko v Rotoiti, Dunderdale Park; Kahukura v Mount Maunganui, Kuirau Park; Whakarewarewa v Ngongotaha, Puarenga Park; Greerton Marist v Rangataua, Greerton Park; Te Puna v Tauranga Sports, Maramatanga Park, Arataki v Waikite, Grenada Park; Te Puke Sports the bye.

Under 19 (Semi-Finals at Greerton Park, all games 1pm) Greerton Marist v Taneatua, Hauraki North v Opotiki.

Mount Maunganui Upset Whakarewarewa

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 08:41:31 +0100

Mount Maunganui caused a huge upset on Saturday (28 June 2008) when they despatched Whakarewarewa, who had been steamrolling the opposition all season. With two losses in the opening rounds, the Western Bay side were desperate for a victory to keep in premier championship contention.

The Mount made their intentions clear from the opening whistle, immediately taking the game to the visitors. Cory Aporo crossed for a try after five minutes with Colin Bourke slotting a penalty in the first quarter.

A Whaka try to Tofu Pomale was countered with Zane Butler touching down for the Mount. The signs looked ominous for the home team when Teu Nafe picked up two tries for Whaka late in the first spell – with the Rotorua side taking a 17-13 lead into the break.

Early in the second spell flying Mount winger Zane Butler crossed for his second try. A magnificent forty metre plus dropped goal from Colin Bourke, and a Danny Morrison penalty goal extended the home teams lead.

The icing on the cake was provided in the last play of the match when the ball was taken deep in the Mount’s half. A big run from Reggie Manu who stopped and distributed the ball led to Shane Manu crashing over. Final score Mount Maunganui 33 Whakarewarewa 17.

Rangataua looked like genuine semi-final contenders, when they brushed aside the challenge from Te Puke Sports at Te Ariki Park In front of a large home crowd of passionate supporters Rangataua built on a one point lead at half time to take out the encounter 19-10.

Defending champions Tauranga Sports ran in fourteen tries as they demolished Te Teko 88-14 in the Eastern Bay. Two tries apiece to Matt Hodson, Josh Hall, Callum Armstrong and Kyle O’Brien led the way. In the other premier encounter Rotoiti were too good for Opotiki taking out the match 41-16 with winger Tom Tiaki grabbing four tries

Whakatane Marist is the only unbeaten team in division one after sneaking past Kahukura 12-5. Te Puna got their championship aspirations back on track waltzing away from Waikite 37-17 with Rangiuru and Greerton Marist also posting victories.

The battle for Baywide survival continued in division two. Taneatua who had sat at the bottom of the points table grabbed their first championship win defeating Marist St Michaels 27 nil. While the Paroa victory over Judea in the Western Bay was no surprise the 74 unanswered points certainly was.

In the Baywide qualifying competition of division three, Eastern Districts are the only unbeaten team, after squeaking past Edgecumbe 11-5. Matata had a field day against Eastern Pirates winning 70 nil, with Galatea and Matakana Island also posting victories.

The race for the top eight in Colts division became a little clearer on Saturday. Rotoiti took a big step forward to playing in the championship round beating Te Teko 34-12. At the top end of the table Tauranga Sports, Greerton Marist and Whaka all banked win points

Bay of Plenty Rugby Baywide Results 28 June 2008

Premier:

Tauranga Sports 89 (Matt Hodson 2, Josh Hall 2, Callum Armstrong 2, Kyle O’Brien 2, Bruce Olsen, David Johnston, Gareth Brown, Steve Wallace, Sio Atelemo, Cullum Rettalick tries; Eruera Haimona 5con, Wallace 3con, O'Brien con) Te Teko 14 (Ryan Hahipene 2 tries; Hahipene con, Scott Sutherland con).
Rangataua 19 (Wiremu Houia, Paul Pou tries; John Ririnui 3pen) Te Puke 11 (Lance Te Kiri try; Brett McLeod pen con). HT: 11-10.
Mount Maunganui 33 (Zane Butler 2, Cory Aporo, Shane Manu tries; Colin Bourke pen dg, Danny Morrison 2con pen) Whakarewarewa 17 (Teu Nafe 2, Tofu Pomale tries; James Tuapawa con). HT: 13-17.
Rotoiti 41 (Tom Tiaki 4, Whakataki Cunningham, John Verstynen tries; Cunningham con pen, Verstynen 2con, Jamahl Moke-Khan con) Opotiki 16 (Te Rau Kurei, Joseph Howe tries; Sam Howe 2pen).

Division One:
Whakatane Marist 12 Kahukura 5, Rangiuru 21 Ngongotaha 13, Te Puna 37 Waikite 17, Greerton Marist 19 Arataki 5.

Division Two:
Paroa 74 Judea 0, Kawerau 15 Reporoa 12, Papamoa 40 Poroporo 12, Taneatua 27 Marist St Michaels 0.

Division Three:
Matata 70 Eastern Pirates 0, Eastern Districts 11 Edgecumbe 5, Galatea 36 Apanui 10, Matakana Island 18 Ruatoki 5.

Colts:
Rotoiti 34 Te Teko 12, Mount Maunganui 27 Kahukura 0, Whakarewarewa 11 Ngongotaha 8, Greerton Marist 40 Rangataua 0, Tauranga Sports 25 Te Puna 14, Arataki 58 Waikite 0.

Under 19 Semi-Finals:
Greerton Marist 17 Taneatua 13, Hauraki North beat Opotiki.

Bawide Contenders Emerge

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 19:25:58 +0100

July is the month where the Baywide championship contenders make their intentions clear on the field of play. With upsets abounding in the opening rounds - six of the eight teams in the premier championship still look to have a chance of making the semi-finals.

Sitting at the top of the table with a three from three win record (and two bonus points apiece) are defending champions Tauranga Sports and surprise package Rangataua.

The Rangataua unit will have another stern test this Saturday (5 July 2008) when they travel to the Rotoiti stronghold of Emery Park. Last weekend the Western Bay side showed they were genuine championship contenders, holding Te Puke Sports scoreless in the second half, to grab a 19-10 victory.

While Rotoiti is sitting in the bottom half of the point’s ledger - they have shown in the past that you write them off at your peril. The big advantage that they will take into the encounter, is the large and noisy home crowd that that will be on hand, at the Rotoiti headquarters.

Another defining game this weekend is the match-up at the Tauranga Domain between Tauranga Sports and arch rivals Te Puke Sports. The meetings between the two sides are often battles of attrition that go down to the wire.

In the two other premier encounters, Whakarewarewa and Mount Maunganui will be favoured to defeat Opotiki and Te Teko respectively.

Greerton Park, will host the first Baywide final of the season, with the Under 19 grade final stanza being played out. The age group competition has been a real success story, with teams sometimes having to travel long distances to play.

In last weekends semi-finals, Greerton despatched Taneatau 17-3 with Thames Valley side Hauraki North (who played by invitation in the Baywide competition) getting past Opotiki.

In division one, Whakatane Marist will have a battle on their hands to retain their unbeaten second round record, when they host Ngongotaha at Rugby Park in Whakatane. Former Bay heavyweight Waikite will be made to fight for victory, when Greerton Marist comes to call at Bellvue Road.

The surprise package in the div two title race is Paroa, who struggled in the first half of the season. A 74-point hammering of Judea last week suggested that the Eastern Bay team will be there at the business end. They should continue their unbeaten run against Taneatau.

In other matches Poroporo who don’t travel well could find Reporoa too strong. Judea will be looking for revenge, after last weeks pasting when they play Marist St Michaels, with Kawerau and Papamoa likely to have a good battle.

The size of the Bay of Plenty rugby region is highlighted in division three with Matakana Island journeying to Te Kaha to face Apanui. Eastern Districts who lead the points tally in the Baywide qualifying grade, should post their fourth successive victory, against Ruatoki.

The Baywide Colts first round come to a conclusion this Saturday - with the top eight qualifying to contest the championship silverware.

BOPRU Draws 5 July 2008

Premier Division (All games 2.45pm) Te Teko v Mount Maunganui, Dunderdale Park; Rotoiti v Rangataua, Emery Park; Whakarewarewa v Opotiki, Puarenga Park; Tauranga Sports v Te Puke Sports, Tauranga Domain.

Division One (All games 2.45pm) Waikite v Greerton Marist, Bellvue Road; Rangiuru v Kahukura, Jamieson Oval; Whakatane Marist v Ngongotaha, Rugby Park; Arataki v Te Puna, Grenada Park.

Division Two (All games 2.45pm) Reporoa v Poroporo, Reporoa; Marist St Michaels v Judea, Marist Park; Kawerau v Papamoa, Firmin Field; Paroa v Taneatua, Lawson Park.

Division Three (All games 2.45pm unless specified) Eastern Pirates v Edgecumbe, Neil Hunt Park; Matata v Galatea, Richmond Park; Ruatoki v Eastern Districts, Tuhoe Park; Apanui v Matakana Island, Te Kaha.

Colts (All games 1pm) Rangataua v Te Puna, Te Ariki Park; Tauranga Sports v Whakarewarewa, Tauranga Domain; Rotoiti v Waikite, Emery Park; Te Puke Sports v Kahukura, Murray Salt Stadium; Mount Maunganui v Arataki, Blake Park; Greerton Marist v Te Teko, Greerton Park; Ngongotaha the bye.

Under 19 Final: Greerton Marist v Haurakai North, Greerton Park – 1pm.

Baywide Roller Coaster Continues on Saturday

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 10:27:10 +0100

The coldest day of the year in the Bay of Plenty continued the roller coaster run of results in the Baywide rugby championships.

Te Teko, who sat at the bottom of the table entering their clash with Mount Maunganui, brought the visitors a dose of reality. The previous weekend the Mount had defeated competition leaders Whakarewarewa.

The match belonged to Tu Williams who ran in three tries in Te Teko’s 37-19 victory. At 21-5 at the break the home side appeared in control. A Mount fight back resulted in two touchdowns - however in front of their parochial supporters, Te Teko powered away to victory. The other try scorers for the home side were Josh Katene-Roberts and Ariki Henry, with Troye Elvin, Zane Butler and James Riddell dotting down for the Mount.

Rangataua shut Rototi out off their encounter at the lakesider’s stronghold, posting 25 unanswered points. Rangataua kicker John Ririnui punished the home sides mistakes, slotting five penalty goals, to accompany the tries awarded to Timoti Gardiner and Akira Makira. The 25-0 score line continued Rangataua’s undefeated run in the championship round.

While Whakarewarewa finished the match against Opotiki with a solid 34-11 win - they were made to dig deep in the first half. A 10-8 advantage at the break told the tale of a tenacious assault from Opotiki in the first spell. The 2006 Baywide champions try scorers were Aliki Kisina with two, while Kelly Haimona and Trent Vatselias also touched down.

Defending champions Tauranga Sports had a good battle with archrivals Te Puke Sports before grabbing a 35-11 victory.

The first Baywide final of the season, produced a minor surprise with Hauraki North defeating Greerton Marist 18 nil, in the Under 19 final stanza. The Thames Valley team, who played in the Baywide championship by invitation, held the top qualifier scoreless to take the silverware home to the Valley.

Former Baywide premier champion Whakatane Marist, continued their charge on the division one title, when repelling the challenge from Ngongotaha 22-6. In other games, Rangiuru sneaked past Kahukura 22-21 with Te Puna and Waikite also posting victories

In another weekend upset, Kawerau was relieved of the unbeaten run in division two, when defeated 25 nil by Papamoa. Reporoa at home overran Poroporo 54-6, with Marist St Michaels battling past Judea 15-7, and Paroa defeating Taneatua 35-5.

Te Kaha witnessed a game of attrition, with home side Apanui narrowly repelling the challenge of Matakana Island 19-14, in a division three match. Eastern Districts continued their charge towards a place in Baywide next season with a narrow 10-5 win over Rauatoki.

In the last round of the Colts round robin competition - Te Puke Sports, Tauranga Sports, Rototi, Mount Maunganui, Te Puna and Greerton Marist all re-inked their berths in the championship round, that commences next weekend.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Baywide Results 5 July 2008

Premier

Tauranga Sports 35 (Toby Arnold 2, Gareth Brown, Callum Armstrong, Eruera Haimona tries; Haimona 2con 2pen) Te Puke 11 (PJ Gidlow try; Aaron Sutherland 2pen). HT: 15-6.
Rangataua 25 (Timoti Gardiner, Akira Makira tries; John Gardiner 5pen) Rotoiti 0. HT: 12-0.
Whakarewarewa 34 (Aliki Kisina 2, Kelly Haimona, Trent Vatselias, Teu Nafe tries; Haimona 3con pen) Opotiki 11 (Rex Wilbourne try; Sam Howe 2pen). HT: 10-8.
Te Teko 37 (Tu Williams 3, Josh Katene-Roberts, Ariki Henry tries; Ryan Hahipene 3con 2pen) Mount 19 (Troye Elvin, Zane Butler, James Riddell tries; Danny Morrison 2con. HT: 21-5.

Division One: Te Puna 22 Arataki 10, Waikite 36 Greerton Marist 10, Rangiuru 22 Kahukura 21, Whakatane Marist 22 Ngongotaha 6.

Division Two: Reporoa 54 Poroporo 6, Marist St Michaels 15 Judea 7, Papamoa 25 Kawerau 0, Paroa 35 Taneatua 5.

Division Three: Matata 15 Galatea 13, Eastern Districts 10 Ruatoki 5, Apanui 19 Matakana Island 14.

Colts: Te Puna 29 Rangataua 5, Tauranga Sports 16 Whakarewarewa 10, Rotoiti 41, Waikite 5, Mount Maunganui 15 Arataki 14, Greerton Marist 57 Te Teko 0, Te Puke Sports defeated Kahukura.

Under 19 Final: Hauraki North 18 Greerton Marist 0.

Genuine Baywide Championship Contenders on Show

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:10:12 +0100

This Saturdays (12 July 2008) results in the Baywide premier title race will determine the genuine championship contenders.

Tauranga Sports, Rangataua and Whakarewarewa, who sit at the top of the point’s ladder, look likely to book semi-final berths. Four other teams have a theoretical chance of playing post section rugby - with two vital match-ups taking place this weekend.

No game will have more importance than the encounter at Emery Park, between Rotoiti and Mount Maunganui. With both teams, having posted just one win from four outings in the championship round, the prize for the winner is a big step closer to the semi-finals.

Western Bay side Mount Maunganui, have been the real enigma in the Baywide ranks this season. After comprehensively defeating top of the table Whakarewarewa - they were outplayed by bottom placed Te Teko 37-19 last weekend.

Just as significant is the meeting of Te Puke Sports and Te Teko at Murray Salt Stadium. Te Teko have one of the best disciplined forward units in the Bay, and also possess a game winner in Ryan Hahipene, who is a real sharp shooter with his kicking boots.

While Te Puke Sports, have been one of the top echelon front-runners all season, they have had a run of injuries in recent weeks. With Matt Wallis and Solomon King on Steamers duty, they could need the boot of Brett McLeod (who is the seasons leading points scorer) to keep in touch with the Eastern Bay visitors.

A dour encounter can be expected at Puarenga Park - where the 2006 and 2007 Baywide champions will go head to head. Whakarewarewa, who were defeated in last years premier championship decider by Tauranga Sports, will be seeking double revenge. In the first meeting of the two rivals this season, Tauranga Sports prevailed by just three points.

While Rangataua has been the surprise package of the championship round with an unbeaten record, they should beware the challenge from Opotiki, in the Eastern Bay.

Whakatane Marist appeared headed back to the top echelon next season, brushing aside all challenges in division one. This weekend it is the battle of the Marist clubs, with Whakatane taking on Greerton Marist at Greerton Park.

A Western Bay derby between Te Puna and Rangiuru will see the winner almost certainly book a semi-final berth. In other div one match-ups, Rotorua teams Waikite and Kahukura should have a good tussle, with Ngongotaha likely to be to good for Arataki.

Paroa have supplanted Kawerau at the top of the division two ledger. There will be plenty at stake when the two sides go head to head (including the top dog position) at Firmin field. With a lot of shift workers in their ranks Kawerau have more player options when playing at home on Firmin field.

Western Bay side Eastern Districts are the team to beat in division three. There unbeaten record will be on the line when they host second placed Apanui at Paengaroa Domain. The Te Kaha based unit have not travelled well in the past, and will need to be at their peak, to topple Eastern Districts at home.

Baywide Premier Championship Points Table

Tauranga Sports (19) Rangataua (18) Whakarewarewa (15) Te Puke Sports (10) Mount Maunganui (5) Rotoiti (5) Te Teko (5) Opotiki (0)

BOPRU Draws 12 July 2008

Premier Division: (All games 2.45pm) Mount Maunganui v Rotoiti, Blake Park; Te Puke Sports v Te Teko, Murray Salt Stadium; Whakarewarewa v Tauranga Sports, Puarenga Park; Opotiki v Rangataua, Opotiki Reserve.

Division One: (All games 2.45pm) Kahukura v Waikite, Kuirau Park; Te Puna v Rangiuru, Maramatanga Park; Greerton Marist v Whakatane Marist, Greerton Park; Ngongotaha v Arataki, Ngongotaha Domain.

Division Two: (All games 2.45pm) Kawerau v Paroa, Firmin Field; Poroporo v Judea, Poroporo Park; Papamoa v Marist St Michaels, Gordon Spratt Reserve; Taneatua v Reporoa, Taneatua Domain.

Division Three: (All games 2.45pm unless specified) Galatea v Eastern Pirates, Galatea Domain; Edgecumbe v Ruatoki, Edgecumbe Domain; Matakana Island v Matata, Matakana Island – 1pm; Eastern Districts v Apanui, Paengaroa Domain.
Colts: (All games 1pm) Section One – Rotoiti v Te Puke Sports, Emery Park; Whakarewarewa v Mount Maunganui, Puarenga Park; Tauranga Sports v Greerton Marist, Tauranga Domain; Te Puna v Ngongotaha, Maramatanga Park.
Section Two – Kahukura v Waikite, Kuirau Park; Arataki v Te Teko, Grenada Park; Rangataua the bye.

Baywide Title Picture Becomes Clearer

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 17:57:14 +0100

The Baywide premier title race became clearer on Saturday (12 July 2008) after round five results were collated.

Tauranga Sports have assumed the mantle of favourites, to win back to back titles after winning a (second) replay of last years final, against Whakarewarewa. In the first game of the season - the Western Bay side sneaked home from Whaka by just three points.

Playing at the Whakarewarewa fortress of Puarenga Park – expectations were for a torrid but extremely close encounter. It became obvious as the match unfolded - that Tauranga Sports hadn’t read the script, running in three tries to one to take out the match 23-5.

Flying Tauranga outside back Sio Atelemo, crashed over for two tries, with Matt Hodson picking up the third touch down. Whaka’s points came from a try awarded to Ngarimu Simkins.

While Rangataua retained their unbeaten championship record, they were made to battle to the final whistle, by Opotiki Sports. The match in the Eastern Bay was an arm wrestle throughout, with Rangataua finally prevailing 18-17. While both sides recorded two tries apiece and three successful kicks at goal - the difference was the second penalty goal from the boot of John Ririnui.

The value of a reliable goal kicker was shown in the match between Te Puke Sports and Te Teko. With a try apiece the prowess of leading Baywide points scorer Brett McLeod, who slotted a conversion and three penalty goals, led Te Puke to a narrow 16-13 win.

The battle for semi-final survival, between Rotoiti and Mount Maunganui, resulted in a solid victory to the Rotorua side 24-13. The Rotoiti victory sees them remain in championship contention.

With just two rounds before the semi-finals, Tauranga Sports and Rangataua are now playing for home semi’s. The remaining two spots will be fought out between Whakarewarewa, Te Puke and Rotoiti.

Whakatane Marist continued to lead the way in division one with a solid 21-13 victory over Greerton Marist. Te Puna and Rangiuru shared 13 points apiece with Waikite and Ngongotaha also banking win points.

Paroa have emerged as the team to beat in division two. On Saturday they sneaked past Kawerau 20-17 to continue to lead the points ladder. Two other matches resulted in the third and fourth place teams suffering defeat.

Papamoa narrowly lost a struggle with Marist St Michaels 8-3 - with Reporoa losing to Taneatua 30-5. Poroporo came from the bottom of the points table to squeeze past Judea 9-3.

In division three, Eastern Districts continued their unbeaten run in the Baywide qualifying competition, with a solid victory over Apanui 37-5. Other div three sides to post wins were Galatea, Ruatoki and Matakana Island.

The Colts post section play kicked off on Saturday. The biggest surprise, was Rotoiti who just sneaked into the top eight, despatching Te Puke 23-17. In a Western Bay local derby, Greerton Marist who has been the big improver this season, defeated Tauranga Sports 18-7.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Baywide Results 12 July 2008

Premier: Rotoiti 24 (Dustin Buckley, Walter Treviranus, Glen Martin, Matt Lander tries; Whakataki Cunningham 2con) Mount Maunganui 13 (Bryce Noble try; Danny Morrison 2pen con). HT: 12-3.

Te Puke Sports 16 (Ross Nicolaas try; Brett McLeod con 3pen) Te Teko 13 (penalty try; Ryan Hahipene 2pen con). HT: 0-3.

Tauranga Sports 23 (Sio Atelemo 2, Matt Hodson tries; Eruera Haimona 2pen con) Whakarewarewa 5 (Ngarimu Simpkins try). HT: 17-0.

Rangataua 18 (Matua Parkinson 2 tries; John Ririnui 2pen con) Opotiki 17 (Te Amo Wilbourne, Craig Maxwell tries; Sam Howe 2con pen). HT: 11-7.

Division One: Waikite 18 Kahukura 10, Te Puna 13 Rangiuru 13, Whakatane Marist 21 Greerton Marist 13, Ngongotaha 11 Arataki 0.

Division Two: Paroa 20 Kawerau 17, Poroporo 9 Judea 3, Marist St Michaels 8 Papamoa 5, Taneatua 30 Reporoa 5.

Division Three: Galatea 39 Eastern Pirates 5, Matakana Island 33 Matata 10, Eastern Districts 37 Apanui 5. Ruatoki 20 Edgecumbe 5.

Colts: (Section One) Rotoiti 23 Te Puke Sports 17, Mount Maunganui 22 Whakarewarewa 16, Greerton Marist 18 Tauranga Sports 7, Te Puna 10 Ngongotaha 5 (Section Two) Kahukura 10 Waikite 7.

BAY STEAMERS START WITH A VICTORY

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 16:03:46 +0100

There was quiet air of satisfaction on the bus home from Palmerston North after the Bay Steamers had defeated Manawatu in a pre-season game.

Played at the unusual time of 3pm on a Friday (11 July 2008) afternoon - the Steamers took the game to the opposition from the opening whistle, to lead 14 nil after twenty minutes. A Manawatu come back late in the first spell, saw the home side touch down twice to see a 14-12 advantage to the Steamers at the break.

Manawatu stormed back into the match early in the second spell, to score a try and take the lead, for the only time in the match. As the second half unfolded the Steamers again established domination in the set pieces, which resulted in three further tries.

A consolation try to the home team late in the game saw the match finish, with the Steamers taking out the encounter 31-24.

Cory Aporo led the way in the try scoring stakes with two touchdowns. Testament to the forward contributions during the encounter was tries awarded to prop Arden Davis and the Steamers big man Culum Rettalick. Kelly Haimona who came off the bench in the second spell, scored a try and added a conversion, with Mike Delany also kicking two conversions.

Steamers Manager Sean Horan said, “ That the set piece work by the Steamers was very good”. “ The forwards dominated the scrums and lineouts especially in the opening twenty minutes and the last quarter”.

The win will give the local side plenty of quiet confidence, as they prepare for their second pre-season match against North Harbour next Friday 6pm (18 July 2008) at Baypark.

Result 11 July 2008

BOP Steamers 31 (Cory Aporo 2, Arden David, Culum Rettalick, Kelly Haimona tries; Mike Delany 2 con, Haimona con) Manawatu 24 – HT 14-12