News

The PIC Steelers have picked up a bonus point but have gone down 37-29 to Taranaki in their Bunnings Warehouse NPC season opener at Yarrows Stadium in New Plymouth on Friday night.

The visitors scored the opening try of the match when prop Kauvaka Kaivelata crashed over from short-range but after Taranaki answered a couple of moments later the PIC Steelers were chasing the game.

Penalties and handling errors meant Taranaki hand the lion’s share of territory and possession in the first half and that theme continued in the second spell.

Whenever Reon Graham’s side was able to string some ball together, they looked dangerous and scored four tries through exciting fullback Etene Nanai-Seturo, loose forward Alex McRobbie and work horse lock Jimmy Tupou.

Five players made their PIC Steelers debut with prop Salesi Tuifua starting well while Ian West-Stevens, Siate Taupaki and Kanavale Helu all taking to the field.

The PIC Steelers return home for their first match at Navigation Homes Stadium next Friday night when Hawke’s Bay come to town.