Panthers, Knights in deadlock

Second-half tries to Shane Tamatea and James Tongia were not enough for the Riccarton Knights to seal victory against the Hornby Panthers at Leslie Park.

After they built a 26-18 lead on Saturday, the Knights let the Panthers back into the game with tries to James Baxendale and Callum Lawrie in the final 10 minutes allowing the hosts to escape with a 26-26 draw after they led 18-16 at halftime.

Knights coach Brent Ringdahl said the result ‘‘was a great indicator of where both sides are at’’.

‘‘When Hornby kicked down field [in the final minutes], our winger could have let it go out but had to make a decision and, unfortunately, he got thrown out. It was one of those calls that could have gone either way,’’ Ringdahl said.

The first half was a classic see-saw affair, with Hornby posting three tries (Lance Mcewan, Matt Pitman and Aaron Harris) only for Riccarton to respond almost immediately after each one.

Simon and Tonga Mounga combined for Riccarton’s first try and Ringdahl said the understanding between the pair was the key to their X-factor in the Knights side.

‘‘They are class players and they understand each other’s play so well. We also have Bruce [Buakula] out there as well, to make a very strong left edge.’’

Riccarton’s second try came through strong running prop Elia Elia, who ran over the top of Hornby defenders.

‘‘Elia has been huge,’’ Ringdahl said.

Halswell held off a gallant Aranui fightback to win 38-30 and remain unbeaten at Aranui High School after leading 26-6 at halftime.

Doubles to Bruce Havea and Kyle Leka helped the Celebration Lions to a 31-24 upset over the Linwood Keas at Linwood Park.

Papanui Tigers manager James Winstanley said his side produced a ‘‘spirited performance’’ in their 34-18 loss to the Northern Bulldogs at Papanui Domain.

‘‘We led 14-10 at halftime and we only made five changes after we had only a couple of reserves because of an early injury.’’