Hokianga Pioneers started the season as they mean to go on, with a satisfying win over last year's premiers Kaikohe Lions.
The Pioneers upset their hosts 40-32 in round one of the Whangarei City and Districts Rugby League Competition.
But Pioneers club chairman Rob Marsh said this year's side were motivated, and
fans could expect a few more upsets this year.
"We have a new coach this year - Andrew Karoi. He has a different style of training and the guys are really enjoying it."
The league team share club facilities with the rugby team and have switched their training nights to Wednesday and Friday to accommodate everyone.
Most of their troops from last year have returned and they have gained some new young players. They have retained experienced players in key positions - such as Richard Karoi at standoff, captain Sonny Taylor at half back and Vern Wilson, who started the season with a hamstring injury, but will be useful on his return.
Hokianga want to carry on as they started, when they host Otaua at Okaihau on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Kaikohe will want to turn around last week's loss when they face Moerewa Tigers in round two at Simpson Park.
Kaikohe have also retained the majority of last year's premiership winning side but are already feeling the loss of standoff Anthony Clyde - a key playmaker in 2010. Lions' coach Benson Selwyn said Clyde transferred to Bay Slayers after moving from the area.
A young Moerewa outfit defeated the Slayers 18-28 in round one and will fancy their chances against Kaikohe on Saturday.
After beating Wairoa in Dargaville, Hikurangi will play their first home game at Otaika Sportsground hosting Marist, who lost to City last week, while City play Takahiwai at Takahiwai. Portland defiantly came back to beat Takahiwai in the second half last weekend. They will be looking to play a full 80 minutes of football when they host Wairoa at Portland Bay Slayers have the bye.
All games kick off at 2.30pm.
-Points: Moerewa, Hokianga, Otaua, Hikurangi, City, Portland 2, Bay, Kaikohe Wairoa, Marist, Takahiwai 0.
