By MATT NICHOLLS
HASTINGS Valley Vikings stamped their authority on the Mid North Coast Rugby Union competition with a barnstorming win on Saturday.
The Vikings dominated at Oxley Oval, beating Southern Cross University 45-10 to move to the top of the ladder.
Skipper and half back Adam McCormack dominated for the home side, scoring three tries, but the game was controlled by the Vikings’ forwards.
The likes of Sililo Sae and Glen Littler proved too powerful for the student side.
The Vikings led 19-3 at half-time before running away with the contest.
Hastings Valley will now enjoy a bye before facing cross-town rivals Port Macquarie.
The Pirates sat out on Saturday with a bye and will face Kempsey at home this Saturday.
Port Macquarie’s reserve grade side took the field, though, with the Pirates beating Bowraville 36-12 at Stuart Park.
The Pirates had led 36-0 with eight minutes left, but a lapse in concentration allowed the Goannas to finish with two late tries.
Tim Boyle was best for the home side, while Jeremy McKechnie and Nick Hurlston also played well.
Under-18 halfback Rhyss Martin also enjoyed the experience of playing against men.
Prior to the reserve grade match, a Pirates under-14 side broke its drought against a Coffs Harbour line-up to win 19-17.
Mid North Coast Rugby hopes to include the under-14 competition next year.
