League: Last chance saloon for Otangarei, Moerewa

Otangarei's Sepeti Tatau carries the Moerewa Tigers defence on his back. Photo/John Stone

It may feel like we've seen this script before but Moerewa will be hoping to reverse their fortunes from 2016.

Otangarei Knights and Moerewa Tigers face off once again in the major semifinal which determines who will battle in the RLN Premiership final.

Otangarei were the victors last season in a tight 22-20 win and will want to repeat the dose tomorrow.

Moerewa have lost the last three times they've lined up against Otangarei but that won't diminish their confidence.

The Tigers outfit are the premier attacking force of the competition with a backline boasting the threats of Jaydenn Bentley-Hape and Te Tuhi Tipene.

They averaged 56 points a game in an unprecedented season while also proving their defensive chops.

Otangarei were a premier side on both sides of the ball and will be confident of picking up another win.

Both sides will want to take the field next Saturday in the RLN Premiership Grand Final where a well-rested defending champion side in Takahiwai lie in wait.

Otangarei will want to get payback for last weekend's defeat. The minor premiers were unable to get the win in a 22-12 loss.

The Knights will be looking to add that last piece of silverware to their bursting trophy cabinet. They hold the Minor Premiership, Harry Clyde Challenge Cup and Anthony Murray Memorial Trophy but the RLN Premiership is the one everyone craves.

Meanwhile Moerewa warmed themselves up brilliantly with a 46-28 win on the back of doubles from Tipene and Rock Wiki.

Conceding 28 points will be a little concerning but this weekend is a different kettle of fish altogether.

Moerewa had only 10 players the last time these two sides lined up. They put in a spirited effort but ended up going down 56-28.

Otangarei's Sepeti Tatau was the main benefactor of the numbers game as he crossed for a hattrick but the game showed Moerewa are a team built on effort and that is what will be needed to clinch the final berth.

The match kicks off tomorrowat 2.30pm at Toll Stadium.