Defending champions Napier Old Boys Marist were classy in their 49-13 drubbing of Taradale Rugby and Sports at Tareha Recreational Reserve. First five-eighth Johnny Lauano scored 24 points with two tries and seven conversions from as many attempts at goal.
"We were beaten by a better team. They were well drilled and took their opportunities. We had opportunities but couldn't take them because of dropped balls and turnovers," Taradale assistant coach Mutu Ngarimu said.
Scorers:
Clive 32 (J Eden-Whaitiri, J Tuhua, T Poto, penalty try, tries; Poto 2 cons, 2 pens), Hastings Rugby and Sports 29 (M Emerson, A Vuki, I Ioane, T Vaiusu tries; Vaiusu pen, Ioane 3 cons). HT: 11-3.
Napier Old Boys Marist 49 (M Buckley 2, J Lauano 2, S Paese, M Thompson, S Weber tries; Lauano 7 cons), Taradale Rugby and Sports 13 (N Tweedy, K Whakataka tries; B Truesdale pen ). HT:
28-3.