The Rūātoki women’s rugby team have kicked their season into action with a victory over former champions Rangataua.

A 22-7 victory at Tiwi Black Park saw Rūātoki nab a valuable five points in what was a gritty display.

They were superb defensively, restricting their highly fancied opponents to one try while helping themselves to four, with speedy winger Nivaloh Elliot scoring a double.

Hard-running number eight Layla Te Riini also helped herself to a five pointer, as did powerful hooker Ereti Williams.

Rūātoki’s performance was a step up from their opening round game and they did it without a couple of key players.

It showed teams have to be on their game in the Premiership division, otherwise they’ll get beaten.

Rūātoki’s best were Elliot, Williams, lock Jade Apiata and midfielder Jimmie-Leigh Curry.

On Sunday, Rūātoki welcome Mount Maunganui to town, while Poroporo, fresh off a bye, play host to Ngongotaha at Poroporo Park.

The Ōpōtiki women’s rugby team have bounced back in the best possible fashion with a commanding win.

After a loss to neighbours TVC last weekend, the side rebounded in perfect fashion to pick up a 77-0 win over Tauranga-based Greerton Marist in their clash at Princess Street Reserve last Sunday.

Ōpōtiki, who have a large chunk of players back from last year alongside some new faces, clicked on the day and scored some fabulous long-range tries.

Spreading the ball and playing an attacking style is Ōpōtiki’s focus and that’s what transpired against Greerton as they ran in 13 tries.

Celebrating her blazer game, Wency-Ree Rewi helped herself to a hat-trick of tries, while player-coach Helena Coughlan also scored three tries. Others to dot down included Lillian Razak, Michelle Rangiahua, Arlyce Paora, Nicky Mokomoko, Kerry Green, Tea Hunia and one other unnamed scorer on the scoresheet.

Several of Ōpōtiki’s tries were from long range as they continually stretched the Greerton defensive line.

Mokomoko was rated Ōpōtiki’s best player, while Green and Paora were also strong, and Coughlan made several strong breaks.

Fresh off their first win in the Baywide Women’s Championship division, Ōpōtiki travel to Te Puke this weekend to face their winless women’s side.

TVC faced Te Puna at Whakatāne’s Rugby Park and took the spoils 38-22.

This weekend sees them face an away trip to Greerton Marist, which the visitors should win.