League: Hikurangi dominant at business end

Northern Wairoa Bulls player Joren Firoa. Photo / Tania Whyte

The final round of the Rugby League Northland Scott Electrical Premiership has produced some interesting outcomes for the approaching semifinal rounds of competition.

Hikurangi have maintained their dominant status as minor premiers to see-off any threat form the Moerewa Tigers.

Moerewa, who had a stronghold on the competition's top spot for a good chunk of the season, lost 24-20 to Hikurangi and will head to the minor semifinal playoffs this weekend hoping for a better outcome.

Otangarei also secured a win in the final round, ousting Portland 24-10.

Their late run of good performances keeps them within reach of a semifinal spot and there's little doubt the reigning premiers will be aiming to defend their 2014 title in the coming weeks.

Portland, on the other hand, have had a slump in form during recent weeks and could end up facing the Hokianga Pioneers this weekend - a clash that will be heated. The last time these two teams played the match was called-off due to Pioneers player Andre Lennox suffering a season-ending leg injury.

Hokianga's playoff hopes were hanging by a thread prior to round 18 but their 24-22 win over the Muriwhenua Falcons on Saturday has kept them in the fray for a minor semifinal playoff berth.

Also winning on the weekend were the Takahiwai Warriors after they took down the Northern Wairoa Bulls, 42-20.

A reinvigorated outfit over the past couple of rounds, Takahiwai have peaked at the perfect time and will be a major threat for the coveted 2015 premiership trophy.