In pics: Rugby league kicks off in Hawke's Bay

It was a busy day of rugby league action at Mitre 10 Park Hawke's Bay on Saturday afternoon. Photo / Ian Cooper

Maori Agricultural College started its rugby league season with wins in both the Premier and Reserve grades as the new Hawke's Bay competition got under way on Saturday.

Despite Covid-19 restrictions on spectators, it was a busy day of rugby league at Mitre 10 Park Hawke's Bay.

Maori Agricultural College won 50-16 against Hawke's Bay Bulldogs, while their 2nd XIII beat Omahu Huia 26-22 in a Reserve grade match.

In the Premier division, Omahu Huia edged out Napier Pirate Panthers in a close match that ended 32-30, while defending champions Bridge Pa won both its opening-day games by default.

Hawke's Bay Today photographer Ian Cooper was there to capture all the action.

Maori Agricultural College players focus on the action during their side's 50-16 win over Hawke's Bay Bulldogs. Photo / Ian Cooper

A Napier Pirate Panthers player fighting to keep the ball against Omahu Huia. Photo / Ian Cooper

Spectators watch on as MAC take on Hawke's Bay Bulldogs on Saturday. Photo / Ian Cooper

An MAC player takes down a Hawke's Bay Bulldogs player. Photo / Ian Cooper