First bit of silverware goes to Tukapa

Will Johnston
Photo by: Scott Siffleet

Defending champions Tukapa bagged the first piece of silverware for the season.

It’s 27-15 win against previous CMK premier club rugby leaders Coastal ensured Tukapa finished at the top of the competition standings after the first round to claim the McLeod Shield.

The win at the Rahotu Domain gave Tukapa a three-point lead over joint second placed teams Coastal and New Plymouth Old Boys.

Inglewood and Stratford/Eltham sit in fourth and fifth spot, respectively.

Tukapa led 10-8 at the break before a second half blitz.

It stretched the score out to 27-8 after a charge down kick to first-five eight Jayson Potroz and runaway to Mason Porteous. Potroz also kicked a penalty in the second spell.

Coastal’s come back was too late when outside back Troy Stevenson scored.

New Plymouth Old Boys claimed a come-from-behind 21-19 win against Inglewood at Vogeltown Park.  

In a physical and open match, both teams scored three tries.

Inglewood got out to a healthy 19-7 lead at one stage, but Old Boys’ patience close to the line in the second half secured its fifth victory.

Inglewood’s Josh Jacob scored a try and slotted two conversions, but missed a conversion and penalty, in gusty conditions, which was the difference in the score line.

For the third time, Spotswood United conceded fifty points this year after it lost 56-5 to Stratford/Eltham at Victoria Park.

And at Tikorangi, Clifton picked up its second win of the season with a 38-29 win over Southern.

Competition points will be halved before next weekend’s round.

On Saturday, Tukapa is home to Southern, Clifton hosts Stratford/Eltham, Spotswood United play Old Boys and Coastal is away to Inglewood.