The Whakatane Community were treated to an impressive display of rugby from the Bay of Plenty Steamers, when they triumphed over Northland in a 49-26 victory yesterday.

The Steamers kicked off their flurry of first half tries through flanker Shahn Eru. It was only the start of a number of team tries from flanker Hugh Blake, winger Elijah Nicholas, half back Luke Campbell and unstoppable number eight Joe Tupe.

Dan Hollinshead impressive with the boot converted all six tries to give the Steamers a handy 42 – 12 lead at halftime.

The second half saw the Taniwha come out firing, with a quick first half try. Steamers only second half try was awarded following a superbly timed intercept from Lalakai Foketi.

Northland once again found the try line to finish off the scoring for the match. The Steamers finishing up the match with a comprehensive 49-26 victory over the Taniwha.

The curtain raiser between local Eastern Bay of Plenty Secondary School girls sides Ruatoki and Opotiki College, provided spectators with an impressive display of girls rugby.

At halftime the scores were level between the two sides, however it would be Opotiki College who would shine in the second half. Opotiki College took away a comprehensive 44-15 victory over local rivals Ruatoki.

Bay of Plenty 49 (Joe Tupe 2, Shahn Eru, Hugh Blake, Te Rangi Fraser, Luke Campbell, Lalakai Foketi tries; Dan Hollinshead 7 con) Northland 26 (Chris Apoua, Solomon Alaimolo, Josh Larsen, Sam Nock tries; Peter Breen 3 cons) HT: 42-12