Proud, stoked, happy are just a few of the just adjectives Ōpōtiki premier coach David Te Moana used after his side’s showing on Saturday.

A Mana Howe try with three minutes to go secured Ōpōtiki a well-earned 24-21 victory over Rotorua club Whakarewarewa at Princess Street Reserve.

Ōpōtiki also picked up a four try bonus point for their efforts, thanks to Braeden Elmiger, David Whyte, and Cole Scott all dotting down alongside Howe.

It was a game Ōpōtiki led for large portions and deserved to win.

Te Moana said they were stoked to pick up a second victory of the season.

“I am just super proud of our boys and how they stuck it out until the 80th minute, which was cool from our end because the last couple of weeks we’d been struggling a bit with injuries.

“It shows just how important it is having good depth in your squads because one bad injury can make a team struggle.”

The injuries have meant Te Moana and his coaching team have had to make some positional changes, including halfback and captain Jye McGough to second five eighth and starting Scott at halfback.

“We regrouped and went up to Greerton the week before with Mana out and our boys actually stepped up in that area, especially Jye. As coaches it gives guys an opportunity. Cole has started the last three games at halfback and it gives us confidence as coaches, to make those changes.”

This week is a much-needed bye, which Te Moana said came at a good time, so they could rest a few bodies.

“It allows us to freshen up a bit and try and get the back end of our season together because if we win these last three games, we’re a mathematical chance of making the top four.”

He’s thankful to fans and their continual support.

“There was a big crowd there [on Saturday] and that is something the boys really appreciate seeing; supporters who haven’t been there in a long time come back down and support us.”

Ōpōtiki were ahead 17-14 and they scored and then held on to the ball and managed to score.

“The boys just worked super hard and knew they could do it if they held onto the ball. It’s just awesome to see. As coaches you go through rocky patches, but it’s all worth it when you get a well-deserved win.”

Te Moana admits they will have to do some recruiting for next season to give themselves more depth.

“Hopefully we can find some out there that want to give premier rugby a crack, although we want guys that want to be there and play for the jersey, not just there because they think they are good enough.”

Following the bye, Ōpōtiki have a home contest against Mount Maunganui.