Rugby League: Big upset adds to winning streak

Tai Pelesasa helps Ngongotaha to one of the season's biggest upsets - their 22-20 defeat of Pacific in the Bay of Plenty District Rugby League premier competition. Photo/Stephen Parker

Ngongotaha have defeated Pacific 22-20 in one of the biggest upsets of the rugby league season.

Pacific (Tokoroa) were undefeated heading into their fixture on Saturday in the Bay of Plenty District Rugby League premier competition. But the in-form Ngongotaha side, who have now won four matches on the trot, showed plenty of spirit to topple the defending champions.

Pacific came from behind to defeat Pikiao (Rotorua) last weekend but could not withstand Ngongotaha.

In a day of upsets, Taupo also overcame Pikiao who were missing a few players with the kapa haka regionals in Rotorua.

Playing at home, Taupo proved too strong for Pikiao recording a 38-26 victory.

It means, after six rounds, four teams have put their hands up as contenders in the premier competition.

Ngongotaha and Pacific are leading the way with only one loss each while Taupo and Pikiao are right behind them.

Forestland sit in fifth spot followed by Mangakino and winless Central (Rotorua).

Forestland (Tokoroa) had a good win on Saturday defeating newly-promoted Mangakino 28-20. The Tokoroa club will be hoping to claw their way back into the top four during the remainder of the season.

Bay of Plenty District Rugby League results on Saturday:

Premier: Forestland 28 Mangakino 20, Taupo 38 Pikiao 26, Ngongotaha 22 Pacific 20.

Reserve grade: Pacific 52 Putaruru 15, Turangi bet Pikiao by default, Taupo 28 Reporoa 40.