Coach has high hopes for winning Waikite side

With a new backline and young forwards, Waikite's premier rugby team is still working on gelling together and combinations, but their coach is aiming for success this season.

Waikite had a home-ground win against Opotiki on Saturday with a score of 31-26. Coach Stephen Jones said he was pleased with the outcome of the game - the second of the season - however, they still had a few things to work on.

"There was a strong comeback by Opotiki in that second half game," Jones said.

He said the team's backline played a strong game while their first five-eighth Scotty Thompson was a key player on the day.

Jones said the 2012 Waikite side had a new backline and the forwards were young, which was a challenge because they had to look towards building new combinations.

He said fitness and combinations were two key areas he wanted to improve this season.

Despite the challenges Jones was "forward focused" and positive for the 2012 season.

"Like all seasons we want to go out and win every game - have a shot at top four," Jones said.

"We don't go to lose," he said.