One team fell to a last-minute try while the other was beaten by 10 points in two spirited showings in the Bay of Plenty Women’s Premiership.

Ngongotahā managed to score a last-minute try against a superb Rūātoki side to take the spoils, 24-22, in a highly entertaining clash at the Ngongotahā Domain.

In their previous clash, Rūātoki were beaten by plenty, so it was a fantastic turnaround from the Eastern Bay side.

Although they lost to Rangataua, Poroporo coach Geri Paul praised her team.

“I’m proud of the team, sticking to the fight till the end. The improvement has been visible in other games, but I guess with Rangataua being our first game this season, it gave us a measuring stick.

“I think we have been lucky to have a great core that shows up week-in and week-out, no excuses. And they put their body on the line every time, so I’m extremely proud.”

This weekend they are tackling Mount Maunganui, a heavyweight in the competition each year.

“The Mount will be another tough team. The first time we met, it was 29-0 to them. But it’s always a good encounter.

“We’re just looking to keep improving and give it a full 80 minutes.”

While the semi-finals would be an awesome achievement, staying up there is the team’s main focus.

“Our goal for the season is always to do enough to stay in the premiership in 2026. It’s obtainable but not guaranteed.”

Hazel Gates was outstanding for Poroporo at first-five eight. The 16-year-old moved into the play-making role from second five and looked impressive.

Another standout for Poroporo was Bridgette Horsburgh, while Lesah Chase showed plenty of promise.

Rūātoki co-captain Ereti Williams was also proud of her team and their effort.

Their best performers were Nadia Flavell, Tawharautia McGarvey and Aryahn Clarke.

In Tauranga, Ōpōtiki took on Arataki and took the spoils 51-20.

It was an outstanding effort from the green-blue-and-whites, who turned up with only one reserve.

Ōpōtiki co-captain Helena Coughlan said the team produced an outstanding showing and were helped by the experience of Black Ferns hooker Luka Connor.

“Luka played extremely well. Luka had go-forward all game with ball in hand and was superb setting our pods up; her communication on the field was outstanding. She also bought the energy for the girls.”

Coughlan is pleased with how everyone has improved week to week.

“I’m beyond proud of my ladies, the sportsmanship, dedication and determination, to be able to field a team with what we’ve got.

“Each and every player has contributed to the team and it definitely makes my job easy when I know the ladies are all on board, and they are out on the paddock enjoying themselves.”

This weekend, they tackle Kahu Pirates at Princess Street Reserve, their final home game for the round robin.

Ōpōtiki are comfortably inside the top four, but will want to keep winning so they can earn a home semi-final.

“Our team is very excited to play another home game. We played Kahukura last year and we won, but they were still growing. I know this year they will bring it.

“I know this game is going to be very physical. We’ve just got to nail down the basics and execute our plays, and let the ball do all the work.

It’s their final game at Princess Street Reserve until the playoffs and Coughlan would love to see a big turnout of supporters.

“We think it would be awesome to have a big crowd to tautoko women’s rugby at home.”

She said everyone in the team had stepped up.

“It has definitely been a team effort all season, but there have been some outstanding individuals that have really stepped up and shown amazing skills, every game.”

Meanwhile, Waimana fell to a 44-15 loss to Te Puna in their clash at the Waimana Domain.

This Sunday, they are away to Greerton Marist.