The Baywide Premier Women’s competition is proving to be a challenging competition for EBOP teams in 2026.

Poroporo were well beaten 53-5 by a strong Ngongotaha side, while Rūātoki lost 38-28 to Mount Maunganui.

It’s been a tough start for Poroporo, who have a host of new players and have shown signs of promise but are also taking time to find their combinations.

Rūātoki, who were missing several players from the opening couple of rounds because of injury, put in a spirited showing against the Mount.

They scored four tries to snare a bonus point, with some players shining.

Hard-working Ereti Williams bagged two tries and was one of their best on the paddock in a losing cause, while fullback Nivaloh Elliot was impressive despite not scoring a try.

Jayde August made some strong carries and showed how dangerous she is with ball in hand.

The powerful Te Urupounamu McGarvey was missing, and for good reason, as she’s been called back into the Chiefs Manawa squad for 2026, so Rūātoki will be unlikely to see her services again.

Another player performing strongly is young first five Reve Ngaheu, while Agnes McGarvey is a youngster worth keeping a watch on as she never shies away from the tough carries or the strong tackles.

Despite being well beaten by Ngnongotaha, plenty of players stood up for Poroporo.

Freedom Marou continues to shine, Mikyla Wardlaw-Ruru and Te Pare Hillman, who have come across from Waimana, have been outstanding, as has Moeroa Wright, while Fern Nixon, Herataimai Eruera and Grace Turner also performed strongly.

This weekend sees Poroporo and Rūātoki face off in a clash at Poroporo Park, which is certain to attract a big crowd.

Meanwhile, in the Baywide Championship Women’s division, Ōpōtiki may have been down on personnel but that didn't stop them from claiming the spoils on Sunday.

Their 51-5 win in their match against Te Puke was built around grit, teamwork and determination, with several players playing out of position for the clash.

Again, player-coach Helena Coughlan had a day to remember, with the former Volcanix player helping herself to four impressive tries.

Captain Christina Lloyd, playing on the side of the scrum, was superb, bagging a hattrick and popping up all over the park.

Arlyce Paora also helped herself to a try, as did Leah Wilson.

Former Black Ferns prop Kate Henwood, who, recently retired from professional rugby, is playing number eight for Ōpōtiki and was outstanding.

Fullback Wency-Ree Rewi had a strong game, as did makeshift winger Shinoa Nikora.

Ōpōtiki are trying to play an open positive style and Coughlan feels like they are improving each week.

"I was proud of the ladies this week. We only had three subs and had heaps playing out of position, but to go over there and still win was awesome."

Coughlan said the ladies stepped up and played good rugby.

Maramatanga Park in Tauranga is where they head this Sunday as they eye up a battle with Te Puna.

"They will be a tough challenge for us."

Te Puna defeated Ōpōtiki in last year's semifinal, so the blue-white-and-greens will be hoping they can get one back on the defending champions.

She said their focus while enjoying rugby was to create a culture that everyone was proud of.

"Hopefully, we have enough ladies and can go down there and challenge them."

Kick off on Sunday is at 1pm.

Meanwhile Tihirau Victory Club racked up an impressive 72-5 win over Greerton, firming them as one of the favourites in the division.

An impressive eight tries were scored between the Kopa sisters, Dane-a, Whaiora and Zakeiya, while Alizay Grant helped herself to a brace of tries.

TVC have some outstanding players in their squad and they continue to play a fast-paced game.

They have scored 168 points from their opening three games, all of which have been victories.

This weekend, they come up against Arataki in Tauranga.