Firehawks maintain focus on securing playoff berth

• Published date: 23 June 2022

With just one round of eight games left before top-five playoffs in August, it is important for teams to be well placed to ensure an opportunity to make the final

A first-up win against Ngăruawăhia Lions 62-18 was an enjoyable spectacle for locals, as the team returned to Albert Park for the first time in several seasons.

The following week was a reality check as Hamilton Hornets travelled South to the “Nest”, returning home with a “flattering” 20-20 draw.

While supporters were mystified, the players knew they’d let themselves down and took responsibility for the below-par performance.

The opportunity for redemption came the following week where the Firehawks met Hamilton City Tigers at Resthills Park in Hamilton.

It was a game of two halves with the Tigers looking comfortable with an 18-10 lead at halftime.

The message for the Firehawks at halftime was a simple three-step process, consisting of moving the defence line forward, making first-up tackles and holding onto the ball when they had possession.

The end result was a 46-24 win to the Firehawks.

The win against Steelers at Resthills was probably the best all-round game, according to coach Kane Rangitonga, who returned to the role after 2021 coach Victor Heke was unable to return while recovering from illness.

There is still a presence with Heke’s daughter, Upper Central Women’s Rugby League representative and captain, “Dorta”, and Warwick “been here since 2003” Ratima, providing a strong training team with experience and modern techniques and understanding of the game to prepare the team for battle.

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