Poroporo’s victory over Rūātoki in the Baywide Women’s Premiership was an impressive effort.

The 26-12 victory puts the team in a good position to seal a semifinal spot and keeps them in the top grade for 2026.

Twenty-four hours prior, it was looking as if Poroporo might have to default the clash, with just 14 players and one on restricted minutes, however, they found a couple of players and managed to pull together and secure an impressive win.

No-one was happier with the result than Poroporo coach Geri Paul who said team connection was key to their victory.

“I think every coach is pleased with getting a win, but I am more stoked with the connection of the team that made the win possible.”

Although there had been many highlights this year, the way the team played with many new combinations was amazing, she said.

“There’s been many highlights this season and the nature of the competition makes every game a must win, so pulling it off makes it special for sure.

“Our two players of the days went to Jade Marhsall in the forwards, who carried strong, tackled mean and got stuck into the rucks and Orijahn Falwasser-Hunt, whose timing into the backline created doubt and overlaps, and her defence at fullback saved us more than once.”

Making the win more special was that it was the first time Poroporo had won at Tiwi Black Park.

“It’s the first time the win has gone to the visiting team (between us) over the years. Whoever has hosted has won. The win catapults us into semi-final contention, but it doesn’t secure us there.”

She said their focus now was on defeating Tongariro at Poroporo this weekend and then, they’d look to the playoffs if they earn a spot.

“The goal this week is to continue improving on us and whatever will be, will be. We won’t be taking them lightly. We will have our feet on the ground, and we’ll start again.”

Rūātoki will be disappointed not to have beaten Poroporo at home.

The best for Rūātoki were Layla Te Riini, Te Urupounamu McGarvey, Wenarata Teepa and Jaide Russell.

This weekend, they tackle Rangataua at Tiwi Black Park and will be after a win to try and make the semifinals.

Meanwhile, in the championship, Ōpōtiki fell 34-19 to Te Puna in Tauranga.

It was a good performance from Ōpōtiki considering they had only 16 players for the clash and were missing some key figures.

Ōpōtiki ran out of legs late in the clash and that allowed Te Puna to get on top.

They have a bye this weekend before travelling back to Te Puna for the semifinal.

Waimana scored a 12-all draw with Greerton Marist in a tense contest at the Waimana Domain.

This weekend, they are away to Te Puke and will be looking to bank 5 points.