Whakarewarewa and Rangataua were the big movers on the points table, on a day where the top three teams in the Bartercard Baywide Premier title race, suffered defeat

The battle between the two Rotorua heavyweights was taken out by Whakakrewarewa who defeated Rotoiti 30-17 at Emery Park. The visitors were in charge in the first spell taking a 16-7 advantage into the half time break.

The Bay of Plenty Steamers won their first warm-up encounter of the 2010 season, when they defeated the Manawatu Turbo’s in Reporoa, on Friday (9 July 2010) afternoon.

The opening Steamers try came early in the encounter, when halfback Chad Tuoro crossed for the first of five Steamers touchdowns. More pressure from the home side resulted in Ben Smith and Grant McQuoid crossing for further tries.

BOP Steamers won the pre-season game against Manawatu 35-10 in Reporoa today. Strong games for Andrews, McQuoid, Cane. Full report to folllow.

Bay of Plenty Steamers v Manawatu – 2.30pm Kick Off. Reporoa Rugby Club.
1 Tristan Moran 2 John Pareanga 3 Josh Hohneck 4 Aidan Kuka 5 Culum Retallick 6 Luke Andrews 7 Sam Cane 8 Luke Braid (captain) 9 Chad Tuoro 10 Dan Waenga 11 Ben Smith 12 Grant McQuoid 13 Brett Mather 14 Lance Mac Donald 15 Toby Arnold.
Reserves: Simon Chisholm, Joe Savage, Luke Katene, Chris Elvin, Phil Burleigh, Nic McCashin, Jason Hona
Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln    Manager: Ross Everiss

With three of the top four teams in the Bartercard Baywide Premier title race suffering defeat on Saturday (3 July 2010) – the major beneficiaries were Whakarewarewa and Rangataua, who have moved within striking distance of semi-final spots.

Rangataua thrilled their home supporters at Te Ariki Park, when they upset Tauranga Sports who are the defending Baywide Premier champions. While Tauranga Sports were without a number of their regular team members, the home side made a barnstorming start leading 21 nil after twenty minutes.