The Wanganui Under-18 team got their five-game campaign off to a good start by thwarting a late comeback from Horowhenua-Kapiti with a 25-17 win in Levin on Saturday.
In a close match with the momentum switching throughout, Wanganui's pack laid a good foundation for their backline, with fullback Daniel Kauikascoring the opening try after some slick passing out wide.
Horowhenua Kapiti replied quickly when they caught Wanganui's midfield off guard and scored close to the posts to lead 7-5.
Wanganui replied when Callum Joblin scored out wide after a build-up through the forwards, and then Harerangi Meihana landed a penalty shortly before halftime for a 13-7 advantage.
The home team struck early after the break to close the gap to one point, with a good try out wide from Quaid Ponga.
Horowhenua-Kapiti did not succumb and with five minutes remaining they went on attack and scored again, although missing the conversion that would have given them the lead.
Desperate to force another score, Horowhenua-Kapiti took a chance and Wanganui's Junior Ainea intercepted in the midfield and dashed away under the posts for the match winner.
Wanganui U-18 now move on to their two big games against Taranaki in Hawera this weekend and Wellington at Cooks Gardens on September 12.
