League: Will training do for Warriors again?

Takahiwai's Wataiaua Thompson makes a burst during last weekend's top of the table clash against the Hikurangi Stags. Photo / Michael Cunningham

For the second week in a row the Takahiwai Warriors will host a top-of-the-table clash, this time against the Otangarei Knights.

Last week, Takahiwai had a surprise 34-20 loss to the Hikurangi Stags, as the Warriors were run off the park in the second half of their Rugby League Northland Premiership clash.

After Hikurangi's emphatic win, Takahiwai coach Shane Hool felt it showed how his side were not showing up to training as much as they should have.

"I think it showed we've been having bad showings at trainings the last couple of weeks and it has finally caught up with us," Hool said.

"Hopefully it shakes them into action to get to training."

This week will show if there has been a better attendance at training, because no doubt Otangarei will prove if Takahiwai have not been training.

Until last weekend's game, Takahiwai were undefeated and boasted the competition's best attack and defensive records, something Hool believes could have counted against his side.

While Otangarei in the past have been tough customers, this year they have a game plan and are executing under the guidance of former NRL player Iwi Hauraki.

In other Premiership match-ups, the Northern Wairoa Bulls host the Hokianga Pioneers while Hikurangi host the Portland Panthers at Bluegoose.

The Kerikeri Makos will have another tough game this week as they face the Moerewa Tigers in Moerewa.

Rounding out the weekend's matches is the Hora Hora Broncos and Muriwhenua Kuaka who play in Hora Hora.

All games kick off at 2.30pm.