HASTINGS Valley Vikings withstood a final half fade-out to beat cross-town rivals Port Macquarie in a thrilling rugby union contest on Saturday.
The 22-21 win at Oxley Oval means the Vikings will now win the minor premiership and are the flag favourites heading into the finals.
The Pirates won’t be discouraged from their performance, though.
Down 22-7 at the break, Port Macquarie scored two second half tries to give the Vikings a scare.
Try scorers for the Pirates were Jake Taylor, Glen Littler and David Tunstead, with Jesse Gleeson booting two conversions and a penalty.
Kori Paio, Nick Hurlstone and Lachlan Bassett crossed the line for the Pirates, with Sam McNeil adding the extras.
There are still three rounds remaining in the Upper Mid North Coast competition.
Hastings Valley backs up with another home game this Saturday against Kempsey, while the Pirates travel to Coffs Harbour in a bid to secure second spot on the ladder.
