The Senior Northland Men’s team continued its unbeaten start to the 2026 Vodafone Vanua Championship with a hard-fought 21-13 win over Northern Bulls at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori on Tuesday.
After opening their campaign with a win over Ra last week, Northland backed it up with another disciplined performance to climb to the top of their Vanua Challenge pool and continue their unbeaten start to the season.
The match lived up to expectations, with both teams producing an entertaining brand of rugby built on physicality, determination and quick ball movement. From the opening whistle, neither side was prepared to take a backward step as strong carries, solid defence and fierce contests at the breakdown kept the crowd engaged throughout the afternoon.
The Northern Bulls settled into the game well and took a narrow 8-6 lead into halftime after making the most of their opportunities. Their defensive pressure and willingness to move the ball challenged Northland throughout the opening 40 minutes and ensured the contest remained evenly balanced.
Whatever was said to the Northland team during the break had the desired effect. The visitors returned with greater urgency and composure, lifting the tempo in the second half while sticking to their structures. They remained patient under pressure, controlled possession well and took their chances when they came.
Although the Bulls continued to throw everything they had at Northland until the final whistle, the visitors showed the maturity to close out the match and secure an important away victory.
Northland Team Manager Save Nevo said the result reflected the work the squad had put in during the week and the respect they had for their opponents.
“We entered the game as underdogs and did not underestimate the Bulls, especially after their big win last week,” Nevo said.
“We kept our heads down, focused on our tasks, and we gave thanks to the Almighty for this victory.”
Nevo said improving the team’s second-half performances had been a major talking point after the opening round, and he was pleased to see the players respond.
“We really wanted to improve on our second-half play, which was a major area of focus after our last game,” he said.
“Today, we executed our plan well, maintained composure, and our impact players stepped up, lifting the intensity of the match.”
The influence of Northland’s bench was evident as the game wore on, with fresh legs helping maintain the team’s defensive effort while adding energy in attack when it mattered most.
The atmosphere at Ratu Cakobau Park also reflected the growing excitement surrounding the Vodafone Vanua Championship. Supporters from both teams turned out in numbers and created a vibrant setting for a match that showcased the competitiveness and passion of provincial rugby.
Victory provides another confidence boost for Northland as they continue to build momentum early in the season. Winning away from home against a determined Northern Bulls side will give the squad plenty of belief heading into the next round.
While Northern Bulls were left disappointed with the result, their spirited display showed they remain a team capable of challenging any opponent in the competition.
With two rounds completed, Northland has positioned itself among the early pace-setters. The side is also beginning to show the consistency, resilience and belief needed to sustain a strong campaign as the Vodafone Vanua Championship season continues.