League: 12-man Pioneers tame Broncos

David Wikaira was one of the outstanding players for Hokianga Pioneers against Horahora Broncos on Saturday. Photo / Michael Cunningham

Despite playing with 12 players for most of the game, the Hokianga Pioneers hammered Horahora Broncos 54-22 in the inaugural round of the NRL Scott Electrical Premiership.

Prop Hemp Ihaka suffered a knee injury in the first half and was not replaced as the substitutes did not turn up on Saturday. The match was played at Horahora.

Hokianga Pioneers coach Benson Selwyn said to play with one man down and win with such a big margin was outstanding.

"My halftime talk was that we were down to 12 and the boys will have to keep their heads up and they did.

"We were fitter than the other team but nothing is to be taken away from Horahora. They gave their best," he said.

Selwyn singled out brothers Marcus (prop) and David Wikaira (fullback) plus centre Alistair Kelemete as players who stood out for his team.

This weekend his teams host Portland at Okaihau.

"That's a big game and, hopefully, we take that one out too."

In the other games on Saturday, Otangarei Knights beat Portland Panthers 42-8 while Takahiwai Warriors posted the biggest score of the round, thumping Northern Wairoa Bulls 54-18 at Finlayson Park in Dargaville.

Moerewa Tigers had the bye.

This week, Takahiwai Warriors play Horahora Broncos, Hokianga Pioneers are up against Portland Panthers and Moerewa Tigers clash against Northern Wairoa Bulls.

Otangarei Knights are on a bye.