Stoke will host Riwaka in next weekend's division two rugby final after contrasting wins at home today.
Stoke beat Collingwood 38-12 in a dominate performance at Greenmeadows.
Over in Riwaka it was a different story. They hosted local rivals Huia in the 'battle of the bridge' semifinal.
Driving to Cook's Reserve it was clear just how important the game was in the community. Blue and white balloons adorned the bridge over the Motueka River and signs read 'This is Stephen Hughes Country' through Riwaka on the way to the ground.
Stephen Hughes didn't disappoint. The Riwaka captain scored a try and led his team to a nail-biting 26-25 win.
The see-sawing battle was even at half time but ill-discipline from Huia cost them three yellow cards and that was enough for Riwaka to take advantage and push out a 26-13 lead with 10 minutes to go in the game.
Once Huia were restored to 15 men they staged a late comeback scoring two quick tries to fall just one point short.
Stoke will head into the final as the favourites after another strong season, finishing as top qualifier. But the only team to beat Stoke this season was Riwaka three weeks ago, setting up a tasty rematch.
