League: Comeback sees spoils shared

Pikiao's Balmain Smith celebrates before his try was disallowed during an intense 26-all draw against Ngongotaha on Saturday. Photo/Stephen Parker

Pikiao have come from behind to snatch a 26-all draw against local rivals Ngongotaha in a thrilling premier match at Puketawhero Park.

Pikiao scored three tries in the final 20 minutes to tie the match on Saturday, but missed all three conversions including the final one close to the sticks.

Although Ngongotaha let the game slip towards the end, they have shown once again this year they can match it with the big boys in the Bay of Plenty District premier competition.

A string of big shots set the tone in the feature match, before young Pikiao fullback Shayde Perham broke the line on halfway and threw a Benji Marshall-style pass to Riki Collier, who scored in the corner.

Pikiao then raced out to a 14-6 lead before Ngongotaha completely took over.

Ngongotaha scored the next four tries through Josh Taylor (2), Taua Thompson and George Playle.

The Ngongotaha big men Vito Peato and Matini Matini were influential during the dominant spell, putting in crunching tackles and getting in the face of the Pikiao players.

Ngongotaha led 26-14 with 20 minutes to go, but the momentum shifted and Pikiao began their comeback.

Percy King scored for Pikiao after keeping himself, and the ball, in the field of play as he was bundled towards the corner flag.

Moments later Pikiao murdered what looked to be a sure try when they knocked the ball on over the line. However, the mistake would not prove costly.

They made a big bust down the field soon afterwards and Rhys Hohepa scored with 10 minutes left.

Down by four points, Pikiao produced the try of the game on 75 minutes. A few offloads released veteran halfback Te Kaiaotea Tahuriorangi, better known as Bully.

Running at full pace, and with players closing him down, Tahuriorangi put in a perfect kick which bounced into the arms of Hohepa, who scored close to the posts.

Hohepa decided to take the important kick himself, close to the sticks, but missed to the left.

The last few minutes were nail-biting to say the least but neither team could find a winning play.

The two sides are now tied for second on the ladder with Pacific (Tokoroa) leading and Taupo in fourth.

In the other major premier game on Saturday, Pacific defeated Taupo 42-8 in Tokoroa.

Ngongotaha 26 (Josh Taylor 2, Scottie Thompson, Taua Thompson, George Playle tries; Scottie Thompson 3 goal) drew with Pikiao 26 (Rhys Hohepa 2, Riki Collier, Meihana Herbert, Balmain Smith, Percy King tries; Pirikawana Taiatini goal) HT: 16-14.