The team effectively shut down Southern playmaker Mackenzie Palmer, disrupting his game and forcing hurried passes.
The move from Bathgate Park to University Oval worked in Kaikorai’s favor, providing them with a dry ground and sunny conditions that neutralized Southern’s scrum advantage.
Despite Southern holding a 19-14 lead at halftime, Kaikorai capitalized on opportunities in the second half. Fullback Levi Emery missed a chance to set up a try, while Kaikorai’s Charlie Breen and Orlando Tuhega-Vaitupu executed a successful chip and chase play.
Impressive performances from Slade McDowall, Phoenix Tapatu, and Jake Fowler sealed the win for Kaikorai.
In the earlier game, Taieri dominated Alhambra-Union with an 88-12 win. The Broncos struggled with tackling, while Taieri showcased strong defensive play and effective conversion of pressure into points.
The Whaanga brothers, Marc Roony, Sam Fischli, and Reef Newdick stood out for Taieri, with Sam Waitoa leading the scoring with nine conversions and a try.
AU managed to contain Taieri in the first half, but the game slipped away in the second half. The Thode twins and Connor Aldrich showed resilience for AU.
In the other matches, Harbour defeated Zingari-Richmond 82-24, and Dunedin secured a 34-22 win over Green Island.
