A Braeden Elmiger hattrick helped Ōpōtiki to a 42-15 win over Te Teko at Princess Street Reserve.

The victory kept them at the top of the standings with 52 competition points alongside Paroa, but the blue-green-and-whites have a game this weekend against Whakatāne Marist and a competition point will be enough to seal top spot.

Paroa have a bye, so cannot improve their points tally, but are guaranteed a home semi-final, like Ōpōtiki.

In the clash against Te Teko, Ōpōtiki ran in six tries with Mana Howe having a fabulous day out off the kicking tee, nailing all six conversions.

Player-coach Tuterangi Te Moana said it was good to get a win over a good rival.

“As expected, it was a tough physical game. We were happy to come away with the win, but there are definitely work-ons.”

Once again, it was the key figures who stood up.  

“Considering it was a bit wet under foot, Elmiger continued to pile on the points and Howe had a great day off the kick off.”

He said their attack continued to improve each game.

“There were also lots of exciting passages of play and large chunks where we stuck to the game plan well.”

This weekend’s encounter with Whakatāne Marist will be their last round robin match of the season.

“We still hold respect for Marist and their style of play, which has put us away a few times in recent past, so we’re ready for the challenge.

“It is also our last away trip, so we’re looking forward to continuing to grow our team connection and cohesion as this will be a big factor come play-off time.”

Meanwhile, the Ōpōtiki women’s team are preparing for their semi-final in Tauranga against Te Puna.

The ladies have had a week off to feel refreshed and rest few niggles.

Player-coach Helena Coughlan is looking forward to the upcoming battle.

“Our ladies are excited to have made it to the semi-finals with limited numbers. All our players should be back and recovered from injury. It’s been a long season for our ladies.”

The match against Te Puna will be hotly contested.

“Te Puna are going to be very physical. They will be tough and are not going to make it easy for us, so we have to be committed. They play a similar style to us, and it will be a case of who can defend the best.

Kick-off in the women’s clash is at 1pm.