The third piece of the puzzle that will lead to the selection of the Steamers (and the Bay Development team) took place at Opotiki today (18 June 2008).

A Bay of Plenty fifteen defeated Poverty Bay 41-24 in a game of frenetic action. Playing under the new rules, both sides took a little time to adapt to the pace of the game, with plenty of tap and run.

Playing into a strong wind in the first half the Bay forwards set the platform for an attacking back line. A 17-3 lead to the Bay at the half way break - saw the reserve bench used to the full in the second half.

Seven tries to three told the story of a match that Bay of Plenty controlled from the start. Two tries apiece were awarded to Trent Vatselias and Chris Van der Vlugt with PJ Gidlow, Josh Katene-Roberts and Aliki Kisina all touching down. Kelly Haimona slotted three conversions.

Bay team management said it was a strong performance singling out Te Teko prop Josh Katene-Roberts for praise. Another to impress was the Captain on the day James McGougan, who had his usual storming game at prop.

The decisive victory makes up for last years drawn encounter between the two teams.

BOP Representative Result

BOP Fifteen 41 (Trent Vatselias 2, Chris Van der Vlugt 2, PJ Gidlow, Josh Katene –Roberts, Aliki Kisina tries; Kelly Haimona 3 cons) Poverty Bay 24