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The Counties Manukau Heat have made a statement start to the Farah Palmer Cup after thrashing the Bay of Plenty Volcanix 88-0 at Navigation Homes Stadium on Sunday.
Last year’s semi-finalists underlined their 2025 title credentials with a dominant display as they put the visitors to the sword.
Winger Sariyah Paitai scored a hat-trick while Hazel Tubic contributed 23 points via a try and nine conversions.
“I was happy with our speed of play, how our defence shut down options and the overall outcome of our first hit out,” said coach Glen Sharpe.
“As with any game it’s a building process and we need to stay humble and consistent.
“Special congratulations to our debutants! You belong.”
The Heat are back in action on the road this Sunday when they visit Waikato at FMG Stadium.
Meanwhile, the Counties Manukau Steelers were defeated by Bay of Plenty on August 10.
The Steelers ran in four tries but ultimately went down 39-22 to the Bay of Plenty Steamers in their second NPC outing of the season.
The performance earned the home side their first competition point of the year, collecting a bonus point for their try-scoring efforts.
Replacement hooker Ioane Moananu dotted down twice, while Zuriel Togiatama and Adam Brash also crossed the line.
“We improved in a few areas against a strong Bay of Plenty team but still need to show a bit more patience with the ball,” said coach Reon Graham.
“Very happy with our physicality and good to debut two new players, who both put big efforts in. I feel like we aren’t far off where we need to be.”
The Steelers now prepare for a tough challenge against Waikato this weekend.
