A Rau brothers' trifecta helped minor premiers Hikurangi Stags secure a grandfinal berth at Jubilee Park in two weeks. Player/coach Joe Rau at standoff, his younger brother Jordan (fullback) and older brother Steve (prop) all scored first half tries in the semifinal clash at Takahiwai on Saturday, against Bay Slayers, helpingtheir side get out to a half time lead of 20-0. It left Bay Slayers playing catch up football, which Joe Rau said worked in favour of the Stags. "Defensively we played well and held them out off our line a fair bit, and we did some good hard running on attack," Rau said. The Stags led from start to finish in the physical and fast-paced encounter, with Kyron Henare picking up a double, and Rau kicking three conversions along with a couple from Jack Walker, which blew the score out. "It's pleasing as they are a really good side. It was a great morale booster for the team heading towards the grandfinal," he said. The Stags sit out next weekend's second round of semifinals, while Bay Slayers get another crack at making the August 13 final when they go up against Portland. A week off will give the Stags time to heal a few niggles and rest tired bodies, although Rau said he would ensure the boys put some hard work in during the two weeks before the final. Third-place finishers Portland played the fourth-placed Kaikohe at Takahiwai ahead of the Stags versus Bay game. Kaikohe Lions started strongly and dominated Portland early. After the break, Portland stepped up the intensity and pip the Lions 34-36 and earning themselves a semifinal at their ground of choice.
