Proud. That is the word being bandied about following Ōpōtiki’s last-minute 22-20 win in their Baywide Premier Men’s clash against Te Puna at Princess Street Reserve last Saturday.

In games like these, key players stand up at crucial times, and that is exactly what transpired as Ōpōtiki second five eighth, Mana Howe, nailed a 42-metre drop to secure their first win of the season.

There was a raucous cheer from the staunch Ōpōtiki fans when the ball went sailing through the posts.

It wasn’t finished there, however, as there was enough time for a kick off and Ōpōtiki kicked the ball back to Te Puna, but managed to hang tight for the victory.

It is a win that was much deserving for a side that has been extremely competitive in the Baywide competition this season.

Coach David Te Moana said the win hadn’t been far away and was something the players deserved.

“I am bloody proud of the guys. They have put in a lot of work and deserved the win. It was massive getting it at home in front of our fans.”

Te Moana said they knew Te Puna were going to be a tough side but also knew they could challenge them.

“We knew it was going to be tough. I am proud of the guys because it took an 80-minute performance to get the job done and they did exactly that.

“Te Puna really took it to us, but I knew we were good enough because in other games it had been small lapses which had cost us, and it meant we weren’t far away.”

It was also Ōpōtiki’s first match at home following a four-game stretch that featured three away games and a bye.

A strong start saw Ōpōtiki take an 11-5 lead into halftime and they started the second half strong to lead 19-5 before the visitors mounted a comeback.

Ōpōtiki’s scrum has served them well all season and it continued to do so against Te Puna, and while their line-out misfired at times, they still won enough ball when required.

Winger Creed Edward’s scored Ōpōtiki’s first try in the seventh minute, while their second came through hard-working lock Tangike Borell.

Although he missed both conversions, Howe managed to kick three penalties and his drop goal.

Borell was superb for Ōpōtiki, as were fellow loose forward Matt Anstis, prop Ryan Kurei and winger Edwards.

Te Moana said they didn’t want to get too far ahead of themselves but were excited at the challenge in front of them.

“This weekend we are at home again against Tauranga Sports and we’re excited to go out there and face them in front of our home fans. I really feel like we can surprise them here at home.”

It was a tougher day out for the development team, who went down 62-17 to a slick Te Puna outfit.

They managed three tries with Tyler Young, Dylan McPhee and Jackie Ropotini all dotting down.

Ōpōtiki’s development team also face Tauranga Sports this weekend.