Pikiao Warriors' Percy King looks to slip out of a tackle against Mangakino on Saturday. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER
The Pikiao Warriors just keep finding ways to win.
They overcame a spirited Mangakino side 32-24 at Puketawhero Park yesterday , after trailing 22-12 with 30 minutes to go.
The sides went blow-for-blow in the first half and went into halftime at 12-all.
Mangakino came out firing in the second half and scored two quick tries.
When Pikiao kicked off after the second try, they produced a play that appeared to shift the momentum as they tackled the Mangakino kick returner over the sideline.
On the back of that possession Pikiao scored an unconverted try to make it 22-16 and the comeback was on.
They then went straight back on the attack and, on the back of a penalty, scored another try to tie up the score 22-all.
In the 65th minute Mangakino were awarded a penalty in front of the posts and about 20m out.
They opted to kick for goal and go ahead 24-22.
Pikiao piled on the pressure in the final 10 minutes and were rewarded with two tries to win the game 32-24.
Pikiao coach Jason Parata said the wet weather played a part in making it a close game.
"We're probably more of a dry weather team, in the wet we have to play up the middle and [Mangakino] have a big, physical pack.
"Our big guys held their own and we got the two points so I'm happy about that," Parata said.
He spoke earlier in the week about not letting opposition teams get out to a lead.
"We did exactly what I didn't want to happen ... I don't think anyone's seen our best yet.
"We've had glimpses of it here and there, I'm just working on how to bring it out of them for the full 80 minutes."
Meanwhile, the Ngongotaha Chiefs bounced back from a 50-6 drubbing at the hands of the Otumoetai Eels last weekend to beat Taupo 44-30.
Coach Jason Walker said his side played well.
"They played a lot better. They had a lot more control and better discipline than in previous weeks.
"It was a good one for us to win after getting hammered last week - it should give a bit more confidence within the boys," Walker said.
He said the standout players for his side were hooker Destry Tamai and winger Eroni Seibouma.
It is that time of the year when the weather forecast becomes as important as race form.