League: Huge task ahead for newcomers

Vito Peato and his Ngongotaha team will face off against Forestland tomorrow in Tokoroa. Photo / Stephen Parker

Things may get worse for Rotorua's new premier side Central when they host Pacific this weekend.

Last year's champions, Pacific (Tokoroa), have eased through the opening two rounds of the Bay of Plenty premier competition and look set to win comfortably again tomorrow.

So far this season, Pacific have defeated Taupo 42-22 and Forestland 70-6.

Meanwhile, Central have struggled during their return to the premier grade. recording a 56-12 loss to Forestland and a 42-26 loss to Mangakino.

It will be their toughest task to date to try and restrict Pacific's firepower at Puketawhero Park tomorrow.

With recent form in mind, Central will do well to stop Pacific scoring more than 60 points during the match.

The historic club in Rotorua has worked hard to move back into the premier grade this season but simply need more players if they are to compete this year.

In the other premier games, Ngongotaha will travel to Tokoroa to face Forestland and Mangakino will host Pikiao.

Ngongotaha will be high on confidence after winning a 40-36 thriller against Taupo.

Forestland, on the other hand, will be looking to bounce back from a heavy defeat against Pacific last weekend.

Pikiao will be well rested after the bye and should prove too good for Mangakino tomorrow.

Taupo have the bye.

Bay of Plenty District Rugby League draw for tomorrow

*Premier grade: Central v Pacific, Puketawhero Park; Forestland v Ngongotaha, Memorial Park; Mangakino v Pikiao, Mangakino; Taupo bye.

*Reserve grade: Pikiao Res v Putaruru, Puketawhero; Pikiao Snrs v Pacific, Puketawhero; Turangi v Tauhara, Turangi; Reporoa bye.