University's experience and fitness were too much for the new East Coast Eagles as the students scored a 40-24 win at Logan Park on Thursday night.
Both teams came out firing, scoring quickly after the kickoff and proving they were there to play.
Coming off a huge loss to the South Pacific Raiders last week, East Coast was firing on all cylinders and showing aggression and hunger in attack.
After 15 minutes, University led 10-4, and that was quickly extended by a clinical try from the ever dangerous Emmett Hurley on the wing.
Hyrun Martin replied for the Eagles, fending off two University players to score a 50m try under the sticks and bring his side within four points.
University's offence further tested East Coast's resolve, as Joe Bywater converted his own try from the sideline.
Jalan Wallace showed great skill when he broke tackles and danced down the wing, toeing the ball forward and scoring as East Coast fumbled the recovery.
The Eagles showed they had benefited from practice, as they looked fitter on attack, but they were let down by their defence. The University forwards hit hard and made the most of their support runners as the score built to 30-14.
East Coast replied with a try but the students continued to apply the pressure through their brutish offensive play.
Terrence Reid's try in the corner was the result of a well-rehearsed move, even if it was just a consolation for the East Coast side.
The speed of the game was hindered by handling errors, as the weather made the ball slicker than a bar of soap.
The South Pacific Raiders continued their campaign with a come-from-behind 36-10 win over Kia Toa.
Kia Toa led by four points at halftime but the Raiders showed ticker to come back from the deficit.
The Raiders showed superior fitness when they scored three quick tries in the dying minutes of the match.
