League: Stags move to 2nd as Portland reclaim trophy

The Hikurangi Stags have moved to second place.

The Hikurangi Stags have secured second place with a 36-6 win over Moerewa, while Portland claimed back the Ville Salase Memorial Trophy in the final round of the Rugby League Northland MultiKai Cooker Premiership.

Hikurangi's win means they have a break for the first weekend of the play-offs this weekend, something which could work both ways.

Previously, Hikurangi coach Joe Rau has been keen to keep his side's form going into the play-off but after Saturday's win his relatively new team might enjoy a week off.

Takahiwai will join Hikurangi on the sidelines at Toll Stadium, capping off the round robin with a convincing 54-4 over Hora Hora in Te Mai, and claim the minor premiership.

Meanwhile the Portland Panthers won 17-16 in a tight encounter in Dargaville for the Ville Salase Memorial Trophy.

Having previously held the Trophy for seven years, Northern Wairoa claimed the Trophy last season for the first time, Portland wrestled it back in less than ideal conditions.

In other MultiKai Cooker Premiership results, Hokianga beat Kerikeri 40-10 and Otangarei ran out comfortable winners against Muriwhenua 52-20.

This weekend's minor semi finals see Hokianga face Northern Wairoa at Toll Stadium at 1pm and Portland play Otangarei at 3pm.

Results:
MultiKai Cooker Premiership
Final round, July 19.
Hikurangi 36 Moerewa 6
Portland 17 Northern Wairoa 16
Hokianga 40 Kerikeri 10
Takahiwai 54 Hora Hora 4
Otangarei 52 Muriwhenua 20
Minor semi finals
Toll Stadium, July 26.
Hokianga vs Northern Wairoa, 1pm.
Portland vs Otangarei, 3pm