Impressive – that’s the best way to sum up Ōpōtiki’s try scoring deeds this season.

Ōpōtiki have amassed 393 points in their first six games this season and conceded just 70.

It shows how strong they have been on defence, but also, how they love to throw the ball round when possible.

With the players they have available to them, they’re able to adapt their playing style and that’s shown with both forwards and backs dotting down for tries.

So far, they’ve scored 63 tries in six games.

Most recently, the small-town team put the rest of the competition on notice with an impressive 50-5 win over Whakatāne Marist, the EBOP premier men’s defending champions.

The clash was played in fine conditions at Princess Street Reserve on Saturday and saw Ōpōtiki play an up-tempo style of rugby.

The home side, rocking new uniforms this year, were clinical across the park.

Jye McGough, Braeden Elmiger and Tutangiors Mafi all scored doubles, while Te Awaitaia Rolls and Andre Biddle also dotted down a try each.

Coach Tuterangi Te Moana said he was incredibly proud of his team and the performance they produced against Marist.

“I am very happy with how we went on the weekend. We’re in a good position moving into the second round, which I am happy with.”

He said the entire squad continued to stand up.

“I think the boys are gelling really well. Most of them have been together for a few years now and they all look to perform to a high standard for each other.”

Te Moana said the different try scorers each week showed how adaptable the players were with the game plan, but their desire to get the ball wide when possible.

Te Moana expects a tough clash against a revved up Tāneatua outfit this weekend.

“I’m expecting Tāneatua to be very confrontational and physical. I’m sure with the home field advantage and their recent win, they’ll be a tough clash. We are looking forward to the start of the second round nonetheless.”

The Ōpōtiki development team played out a thriller against Matatā but were unable to come up with the chocolates, falling to a 31-29 defeat.

It was a clash played in great spirits by both teams.

Next, the development side face a short trip down State Highway 2 where they will tackle Waimana in what is going to be an entertaining clash.