Ōpōtiki Sports’ premier side can be proud of their first up performance in the Baywide Premier Rugby competition.

Having not been in the division for several years, Ōpōtiki has opted to give it a nudge this year after dominating the EBOP Premier division.

They are expecting it will be a year of finding their feet at the higher level, but their first up effort against Tauranga Sports brings optimism.

Although they lost 38-17, the difference in points was the result of the home side scoring two quick tries while Ōpōtiki had a man in the sin bin.

Coach David Te Moana is proud of the boys’ first-up effort.

“The score line flattens them a bit to be honest. There were some 50/50 calls that didn’t go our way, and we didn’t quite get the rub of the green.”

Ōpōtiki had an extensive pre-season playing four games and that put them in good shape.

“I think it really helped set us up for playing against those bigger, more physical bodies. The boys certainly didn’t let themselves down.”

Te Moana, a former Super Rugby prop, was particularly pleased with their performance at scrum time.

“I pride myself on our scrum and I thought we gave it to them. I was proud of the guys and how our scrum went.”

Ōpōtiki showed they could attack well enough and adapt their game as they scored a good try from a lineout maul to Cale Loyd, while the others went the way of fullback Tamarau Karepa and centre Kiovi Penieli.

Te Moana’s side are at home to Greerton this weekend and will be aiming to put on a good performance for the fans.

“We’re excited to be playing in Ōpōtiki. We really want to do well not just for the guys’ sake but also for the fans and the community.

“Greerton will be tough; they’re bigger guys and more physical, but we showed we can match that last week.”

Constant rain in the region on the back of Cyclone Vaianu means it’s likely to be a heavy field and could lead to a tighter clash.

The development team lost 103-0, but hung in the fight and showed some promise.

They will be better for the hit out and playing at home will only lift their efforts.