Cobras beaten in exciting match 28-26.  In a classic game of two halves, Whangamata jumped to an early 13 point lead, trailed just after the half, and then relied on a late penalty to win the match by two.

An almost text book perfect start saw Whangamata hold onto the ball for phase after phase, earning two early penalties which were slotted over by first five Pete Maisey.  Then on around the ten minute mark halfback BJ Tohaia tore through the close in defence before linking up with second five Adam Hill who threw the final pass to his midfield partner David Bunyan for the centre to score a classic try that took the lead to 13 zip, and a thumping looked to be on the cards.

However, the Cobras dug deep and with the Whangamata back three thinking they were playing for the Crusaders, they started to get some field position and whittle the lead away.  Whangamata needed to stick to their patterns and keep playing the game at the right end of the field, but with the score blowing out so quickly so early, the boys seemed to get a bit excited!

The second spell saw the Cobras take the lead early and Whangamata looked down and out, but as with the win against Paeroa West a fortnight ago, the team dug deep and played through the flat spell, before a tighthead saw flanker Kevin TeHuia gallop 50 metres to score a handy try that saw the lead go back Whangamata's way.

The last 20 minutes of the 47 minute second half was an uncompromising affair, with both sides making breaks and looking likely to score, and desperate defence stopping many promising moves.  Tempers were flaring, but Whangamata held their cool to not give away any stupid penalties and take the solid win.

Tighthead prop Harding Howe led a fine forward effort against the well drilled Cobras side, ably supported by hooker Joe Noa and fellow prop Kurt Jacobs.  Second rower Brad Laurenson was in storming form, with many rampaging runs with the ball in hand, showing good pace around the field.  In the back division Eli Blyes had his best match for Whangamata, skinning his opposite number at one stage in a classic wingers move.  Bunyan was always dangerous with ball in hand, and BJ Tohaia at halfback was also always threatening.

Whangamata 28 (Bunyan, TeHuia, Maisey tries; Maisey 2 conversions, 3 penalties).
COBRAS 26 (3 tries, conversion, 3 penalties).

the match in photos