The Katikati Stags took on the Eastern Pirates of Rotorua in a highly anticipated pre-season clash.

But this match last Saturday was more than just a pre-season game – it was a battle of history, pride and tradition.

These two clubs share a deep connection, with local Katikati rugby legends Sam and Rollo Dunlop having played pivotal roles in both teams over the years.

They even led Eastern Pirates to the Baywide Championship in 1996, further cementing the bond between the clubs.

The two teams were playing for the “Brothers In Arms” trophy, a special challenge that symbolises the long-standing friendship and rivalry between them.

The weather was perfect for a great game of footy, and the Pirates arrived to present the trophy at the halfway line, where it remained for the duration of the match, said Stags spokesperson Quinton Landman.

“The Stags kicked off, quickly taking control of the ball, leading to the first try, which was cleanly converted by Joel Madsen,” Landman said.

“After a series of heavy hits and intense attacking plays, the Stags crossed the try line a few more times before the halftime whistle.”

After the break, Landman said, the Pirates came out strong, stringing together some impressive plays that saw them cross the try line twice, converting one of those attempts.

He said the Stags weren’t about to let up.

“With intense scrums, lineouts and players putting their bodies on the line, they powered back into action, scoring several more tries.

“Despite their best efforts, the Pirates couldn’t overcome the Stags. When the final whistle blew, Katikati emerged victorious with an impressive 87-12 win, claiming the ‘Brothers In Arms’ trophy to add to their cabinet.”

This match was not just about the game – it was also a celebration of the enduring ties between the Dunlop brothers and the Eastern Pirates. Rollo Dunlop, who became the owner of The Rugby Shop in Rotorua in 1989, was naturally drawn to support the Eastern Pirates.

In 1992, Rollo was asked to coach the Pirates, but due to illness, he couldn’t continue, said Juliet Dunlop-Fraser.

However, in 1994, he was persuaded to give coaching another shot, with his brother Sam stepping in to help.

Dunlop-Fraser said that year proved to be a breakthrough, with the Pirates winning the Baywide Premier Competition and seeing players selected for Bay, NZ Maori, NZ Under-18, and NZ Divisional teams.

She said the success of that season fostered a deep sense of loyalty and respect among the players, many of whom remain prominent figures at the Eastern Pirates Club today.

The bond created during those years laid the foundation for the “Brothers In Arms” concept—an annual celebration of the long-standing relationship between the two clubs.

Brothers Barry and Lee Uerata, key members of the Pirates’ front row, have continued to support this connection, said Dunlop-Fraser.

“Lee, now the Chairman of the Eastern Pirates, has championed the ongoing tradition, ensuring that the “Brothers In Arms” trophy will continue to be fiercely contested in the years to come.

“Rollo and Sam, with their deep roots in Katikati Rugby, were more than happy to be a part of this annual event, further strengthening the bond between the two clubs.

“It was an electric day, with passionate supporters from both sides, and the after-match celebrations were enjoyed by all.”

The Stags' coaches were thrilled with their team’s performance, and the squad is looking forward to next week’s challenge at “The Roar” Rugby Tournament at Wilson Park in Bowentown.