The East Coast Eagles attacked from all parts of the field to beat a determined Cowboys team 34-14 in an Otago premier club game on Saturday.
A minute's silence was held before kick off in memory of Southland league identity Eddie Hei Hei, who died last weekend.
Appropriately, the game began with the intensity that the occasion called for. Both teams came out firing and the Cowboys started the scoring with an early try.
It was a physical match up and both sides' forward packs fired in the first half, which allowed for some great attacking play from the backs.
Hyrum Martin was impressive for the Eagles in his comeback from injury, running through the Cowboys defence until succumbing to a neck injury during a strong tackle and having to leave the field.
The Eagles kept attacking and went into halftime with a 12-4 lead.
The second half produced more attacking league in some difficult playing conditions. The Cowboys fought hard and Nathan Anderson was a stand out, but the Eagles came out on top.
The competition leading South Pacific Raiders beat University 50-10 in the other game.
With the Raiders determined to prove why they are on top and the students fighting for a spot in the top four, this clash was always going to be interesting.
The Raiders made a fine start and dominated the first half with a clinical performance.
Raiders hooker Isaac Misky made massive metres with the ball, utilising some sharp footwork to leave University struggling in defence.
Misky's efforts were aided by a strong performance from the Raiders pack. Prop Sam Brame led the charge with countless hit ups as the Raiders led by 20 at the break.
University came out for the second half fired up after some words from coach Ray Fitiao and got on the board through a try to captain Tyson Ball.
But the Raiders kept playing a relentlessly attacking style of football, which the students were unable to match.
The Kia Toa Tigers had the bye, which should see them head to the semifinals well rested and ready to go.
The Tigers will play the Eagles in one semifinal at the Kensington Oval, and the Raiders will face the Cowboys in the other.
By Ricki Allan.
