Papamoa Bulldogs were shocked into the reality of senior competition rugby league at Gordon Spratt Reserve last Saturday after a 72-8 hiding from Tokoroa Forestland Falcons in round one of the BOP-Coastline combined division one competition.
The Bulldogs had some strong moments in the game but playing the full 80minutes at pace will have taught them much.
For the Falcons, the Dawson brothers Anthony and Levi, who both scored two tries, were instrumental in setting the pattern of the day along with winger Aaron Bell who scored three and kicked eight conversions in an 11 tries to two romp.
For the Bulldogs, brothers Lotomataolutu and Lotomau Aukuso played strongly in a beaten pack along with Paul Edmonds who scored their two tries.
In the other local Coastline game in division one, Kawerau Putauaki Stags repelled newcomers Taneatua Warriors 30-22 and Putaruru Dragons defeated Tauhara Maunga from Taupo 26-22.
Otumoetai Eels premiers started their season off in the premier division on a winning note in Taupo, but only just. A 45m penalty shot after the bell by dynamic half Connor Hohepa won the game 18-17, after an arm wrestle for the whole 80 minutes.
In other premier matches, Pikiao Warriors and Ngongotaha Chiefs drew 32-all while Pacific Sharks hammered Mangakino Hawks 82-16 in Tokoroa.
