The Bay of Plenty Steamers have had a close win against Hawke's Bay this afternoon, keeping a firm grip on the Macrae-Shelford Bay Cup.

The full time score of 22 to 17 came after a strong first half by Hawke's Bay with a half-time score of 15 to 17.

The Steamers came back strong regaining their momentum and fought their way through to a well-deserved win.

The curtain raiser with FMG Girls XV taking on the Farmlands Girls XV was a close game at 20 all after full time.