The Bay of Plenty Steamers moved their game up a further couple of notches, when they defeated Waikato in a pre-season encounter on Thursday (24 July 2008) night.

The match was the last of three warm-up games that the Steamers have undertaken, as they prepare for the Air New Zealand Cup.

The Steamers were playing catch-up for most of the first half with Waikato grabbing 21 points. Mike Delany opened the scoring for the Steamers with a penalty before the Moloo’s went on the offensive.

A first half try to Nigel Hunt, converted by Delany saw Waikato lead 21-10 at the break. In the second half the Steamers went on attack running in another five touchdowns. Hunt picked up a second try with Joe Savage, Marcel Cummings-Toone, Toby Arnold and Lance MacDonald also crossing the try line.

With a high percentage goal kicker necessary for success in the Air New Zealand Cup – the Steamers were well served at Waikato Stadium with Mike Delany slotting four conversions and two penalties. 

The final score line of 44-40 to the Steamers reflected an effort that could take the team a long way in the next ten weeks.

Steamers loose forward Solomon King had a grand eighty minutes keeping a high work rate going throughout. Another to impress was Kelly Haimona who came as on a replacement after twenty minutes.

With the three pre-season victories behind the Steamers - their attention now turns to the serious business of the Air New Zealand Cup.  The Steamers are first out of the blocks when they play Tasman next Thursday (31 July 2008) night in Blenheim.

Result 24 July 2008

Bay of Plenty Steamers 44 (Nigel Hunt 2, Joe Savage, Marcel Cummings-Toone, Toby Arnold, Lance MacDonald tries; Mike Delany 4 cons, 2 pens) Waikato 40