League: Eels' season hangs in the balance

The Imperial Trading Ltd Otumoetai Eels premiers will host Ngaruawahia Panthers in a sudden-death playoff at Resthills Park this Saturday after a 12-16 loss to Hamilton City Tigers.

On Saturday, in muddy conditions, the Tigers withstood a second-half onslaught on their own line against a desperate Eels team trying to wrest the lead off the hosts.

After a spell of strong defence and poor finishing, both teams were at a standstill at the final hooter, with the Tigers the victors.

Eels wing Ryan "Flash" Gordon was again a standout in scoring two tries from well directed Josh Weeden cross-field kicks.

Standoff Daniel Holmes was involved in everything in attack and defence and was awarded player of the match, while fullback Lance Rolleston was again steady in defence, although a fumble near the line resulted in the Tigers scoring the winning try.

For the Tigers, ex-North Queensland Cowboys halfback Hayden Karena masterfully directed the traffic around him and set up most of their attacks around the ruck.

In the other semifinal, on field three at Resthills, Ngaruawahia and Hukanui also played out a gruelling encounter, with Ngaruawahia scoring a golden points penalty in extra time to win their match 12-10 and end Hukanui's season.

This weekend sees top qualifier Taniwharau hosting Tigers for the right to progress to the grand final on August 10 and Otumoetai host Ngaruawahia in their sudden-death playoff match at Mitchell Park at 2.30pm.

In the BOP premiers, Rotorua's Pikiao Warriors defeated Forestland Falcons from Tokoroa 36-12 and Taupo Phoenix beat Ngongotaha Chiefs 38-14. Both winners are now assured of playoffs status.