The South Pacific Raiders put on a solid display to defeat the East Coast Eagles 42-30, and University provided a clinical display in a 52-16 victory over the Kia Toa Tigers.
The Raiders increased their reputation by putting away a determined Eagles outfit. The Raiders led 18-12 at halftime, largely due to Gareth Jones' two tries in the half.
Jones grabbed another try in the second half to complete his hat trick and was well supported by hooker Jeremiah Salu, who directed the attack and scored two tries of his own.
The Eagles were always in the contest, however, and made the Raiders work hard.
Tuuta Motuliki was impressive out wide, nabbing a try in each half. Sam Johnstone's return to the side had an immediate impact; his quick style of play around the ruck gained a lot of momentum and he also scored a try to keep the contest alive.
University stunned the Tigers in the first half of their contest, racking up 32 unanswered points.
The dominance was established due to some clinical structured play, with Robert Blair directing the attack and ensuring a very high set-completion rate was maintained. Prop Tyson Ball had 18 carries, seven tackle busts, and 24 tackles.
David Tupi and Jalan Wallace scored two tries each in Varsity's 10-try tally.
Vila Apuula led a determined Tigers charge in the second half. He put on some massive shots in defence and directed his backline well.
Apuula's efforts were supported by Shae Kaeafa, who ran some tough lines around the ruck to lift the speed of the play-the-ball and catch the defence out.
The second half was a much tougher contest.
There is a break for Easter and games will be played against Southland sides on April 22.
