Kia Toa Tigers and University overcame their opposition and terrible playing conditions to secure wins in the latest round of premier matches at the Kensington Oval on Saturday.
The Tigers put away a determined South Pacific Raiders outfit 22-10, while University ground out a 22-20 win over the East Coast Eagles.
The Raiders started well and jumped out to an early lead, through tries to Honehau Clarke-Hepi and Manassah Kutia.
However, the Tigers rallied and soon had the lead, thanks to several tries of their own.
Joel Taniora and Shane Unahi led the Tigers' attack, while Kite Moataane had a huge game on defence and contributed several strong carries.
The Tigers remain top of the competition ladder after the win.
University secured its first win over the Eagles this season, thanks to a late try from replacement player James Devoe.
The Eagles had a strong wind behind them in atrocious conditions in the first half and took advantage to make life difficult for University.
Forwards Sililo Laumea and Antonio Ikahihifo dominated in midfield, busting through tackles and providing a solid platform for the Eagles attack.
That was capitalised on by Sonny McLean and Na'a Tauvaka, who both combined nifty footwork with strong fends to get over the line.
But the tables were turned in the second half as University turned to run with the wind at its back.
Hamiora Ngatoro directed his forwards well and scored a try, while Dominic Tola also nabbed a try and produced a consistent goal-kicking display.
The game was sealed when impact player Devoe came off the bench and scored the match-winner late in the second half.
University captain Joe Bywater was rushed to hospital with a ruptured spleen and will probably miss the rest of the season.
