The Bay of Plenty Lakers have started the New Zealand Rugby League Championship with a 22-18 win over Wellington.
Having qualified to represent the northern region in the championship, the Lakers knew the game against Wellington, played in Wellington yesterday,was going to be a step up in intensity.
However, as they have done several times this season, they took their game to another level.
Having been down 12-4 at halftime, Bay of Plenty remained composed and made intelligent substitutions to get back in it.
Lakers assistant coach Jason Parata said he was pleased with the way his side kept themselves in the game.