Defending champions City Highlanders found some of their old form on Saturday night against Taieri.
In a weekend where many teams were somewhat affected by the university break, City was able to call on several former players to strengthen its side and win 5-1 over Taieri.
However, it was the regulars who got the orange off to a flying start, scoring twice in the first half of quarter one.
The double strike left Taieri reeling and struggling to hold on.
The second quarter was more even, as the blue and golds were able to get into their rhythm.
However, the more composed City defence did not allow a strike back, and the pressure told, with City adding a third score early in the second period.
The Tigers got one back before the halftime break, as they continued to push hard for the comeback, Bex Clementson guiding the ball over the line.
City thrived in a fast-paced game, while Taieri tried to slow the game down and control possession.
Taieri's basic skill execution let it down, and the number of turnovers allowed City to ramp up the tempo.
City almost immediately struck back after the halftime break, and 4-1 seemed an insurmountable lead.
While both sides had many more chances, there was only one more goal, again to City as in the end they walked away having dominated most of the match.
Taieri would be disappointed with the final scoreline, and come round two will be looking for revenge, as the gap between the sides is not that large.
However, as City try to catch leaders Momona, they will be pleased to have such a confidence boosting win.
In other matches, Momona held its lead at the top of the pile and kept the shield 3-2 in a close match against bottom of the table Uni B.
That emphasised the closeness of the competition, while Uni A shrugged off the holiday to put away Kings comfortably.
The top three are now beginning to break away, and the other three sides need some wins to keep pace.
Points are: Momona 16, City and Uni A 12, Taieri and Kings 4, Uni B 0.
- Matt West
