Rugby: Northland pick up pre-season victory

Rene Ranger, right, made his return to the Northland line-up while Peter Breen performed well at first five. Photo/John Stone

Northland got their pre-season rolling with a clinical winning performance against North Harbour.

Northland took out the fixture 38-14 as both sides used the opportunity at Kerikeri Sports Complex to try a few things on attack.

The Taniwha dominated the first spell with tries to prop Namatahi Waa, hooker and captain Matt Moulds, No 8 Matt Matich and halfback Sam Nock.

Starting first five Dan Hawkins added the extras for three of the efforts as Northland raced out to a 26-0 lead.

Harbour scored right before halftime to bring the score to 26-7 heading into oranges.

The visitors scored again shortly after the restart to bring the game back within 12 points.

But just as they got in the fight, Northland put the foot down again to keep Harbour at bay.

After a prolonged period on Harbour's line, Northland broke through as a wide ball gave fullback Matty Wright the opportunity to crash over.

Rene Ranger made his return to the Cambridge Blue on the left wing and, to the delight of the strong Kerikeri crowd, pounced on a loose pass to score the final try.

Replacement first five Peter Breen added the extras on both tries to give Northland the 24-point win.

The game gave the squad the chance to stretch their legs, particularly new signings Tim Bond and Murray Douglas.

The official squad will be named on August 8, two days before they travel to QBE Stadium to take on Harbour in a return fixture.