A rampaging Hawks team soared to its second consecutive Otago spring competition title with a 32-10 win over the South City Dragonz at Tahuna Park on Saturday.
The Hawks dominated the Dragonz with their trademark staunch tackling and a five-try first-half blitz which effectively sealed the match.
It was a deserved win for the Hawks, who have been in top form all season, losing only one match on their way to the final.
Hawks captain Rema Smith said it was "awesome to win two years in a row".
Dragonz captain AJ Valentine said the Hawks were deserved champions.
"We really thought we could take it out today but the Hawks showed what a good side they were".
The Dragonz started well and opened the scoring with a try in the fifth minute to prop Frank Elisara.
The Dragonz held the lead until midway through the half when the weight of territory and possession took its toll and Hawks second-rower Ra Kahukiwa scored, with the conversion giving them the lead.
From there, the Hawks' pressure was relentless.
They were able to run in another four classy tries, leading 26-4 at halftime as the Dragonz struggled to get out of their own half.
The second half was a much tighter affair with both sides scoring one try.
Dragonz centre Mika Mafi was rewarded for a strong game with a try early in the half.
But any chance of a Dragonz fightback was buried when, with 15 minutes remaining, Hawks hooker John Legg ran on to a nice pass on halfway and stepped the fullback to score under the posts.
Players to stand out for the Dragonz were prop Mark Scoullar and lock Craig Masina, who worked hard all game.
From the front to the back, the Hawks were brilliant.
Halfback Bryce Hosie threw some fine passes, prop Shane Way and second-rower Mike Mikaere were brutal in defence for a standout Hawks forward pack.
Hawks coach Korrey Cook said he was "thrilled to win back-to-back titles".
He said the Hawks had worked hard on and off the field in building a good team culture.
