League: Pioneers blaze toward top spots

Pioneers have made their way to a top spot in the MultiKai Cooker Premiership.

The Hokianga Pioneers have made their move for the Rugby League Northland MultiKai Cooker Premiership playoffs, beating Hikurangi 28-22.

Hokianga's win over the defending champions, who have said all season they are in a rebuilding phase, comes at the right time with three games left.

The six-point victory on Saturday closes the gap for Hokianga as teams eye the top two spots to gain a week off before the semifinals.

Despite the loss, Hikurangi remain in second place thanks to a superior points differential as they sit tied on 18 points with Otangarei and Portland. Hokianga are one point back on 17.

Otangarei secured their place in the playoffs with a 48-24 win over Hora Hora, but have every chance of moving into second place in the next three games.

Moerewa Tigers struggled against Northern Wairoa, who dismantled them to win 52-6 and keep their playoff hopes alive.

Before the weekend's game, Moerewa had defeated two top-six teams - knocking over Hokianga and Otangarei, showing their form is no fluke.

Coach Tawio Davis attributed the form reversal to two factors: returning players and their tight-knit team. From now, though, their team will be put to the test.

Also keeping their playoff hopes alive were Portland, who scored a scored a comfortable 50-34 win over Kerikeri, who are bottom of the table.

Rounding out the Round 13 action was the table-topping Takahiwai Warriors hammering Muriwhenua 82-6.

Round 13 results
Otangarei 48 Hora Hora 24
Northern Wairoa 52 Moerewa 6
Hokianga 28 Hikurangi 22
Portland 50 Kerikeri 34
Takahiwai 82 Muriwhenua 6