“We're continuing to build momentum towards the end of the season.”
Prop Jarryd Broughton scored two tries in storming runs as he continues to show he's almost unstoppable if he gets the ball within five metres of the tryline.
Lock Kupu Lloyd-McLean had a standout performance and was awarded both the team and match player of the day, said Ngatoro.
“He gets around the field like an extra loose forward, ranging outside and even set up a couple of tries for the backs.”
Pirates coach Willie Waitoa said the score was a blowout but he was looking at the positives as his boys kept fighting to the final whistle.
“We never packed up shop and stopped trying . . . and we were able to notch up two late tries in the last 15 minutes.”
Pirates were unable to apply the pressure they wanted at the lineout, which was identified as a weakness in the strong Waikohu side with their hooker and captain, Geoff Pari, out due to injury.
Waitoa said his side were still trying to find their legs and had changed their game-plan to fit their current style of play.
“We used to spread the ball a little bit more but we aren't about that any more. We need to adapt to the players we have . . . bring it in a little tighter and look after the ball at the breakdown.”
The team had some standout individual performances, but still needed to work hard at training to get where they want to be as a team, he said.
At least four of the Pirates starting 15 have a work schedule that means they can only make it on game day.
