Otago found itself standing behind the posts watching Waikato line up a conversion in the opening minute of yesterday's Jock Hobbs Memorial under 19 tournament semifinal in Taupo and the rest of the game did not get much better.
The North Island side was far too good and its 48 20 win highlighted how difficult it will be to beat in Saturday's final. Hooker Sekope Lopeti scored during the opening exchanges after centre Amanaki Sevieti bulldozed his way up field.
Otago replied immediately through a Thomas Johnson penalty. But Waikato was dealing in five pointers and impressive fullback Jordan Trainor scored after Sevieti had galloped down the left flank.
With Waikato threatening to pull away, Otago got lucky, when lock Ben Webby charged down a clearing kick. No 8 Alex Hawira grabbed the loose ball and scored.
Otago pressed for a second try and had its opponent pinned down. But a turnover presented Waikato with an opportunity to sweep up field and slot a penalty.
But its try just before halftime proved the turning point. Trainor burst through the defence and found talented left winger Jesse Rihari, who provided the finish.
Shortly after the break, Trainor found himself in space again and this time loose forward Luke Jacobson was well positioned to take the final pass.
A yellow card for Otago centre Jed Thomas made a comeback unlikely. But his side did have the final say, when Christian Kelly scored in the final five minutes.
Waikato openside flanker Jahrome Brown had an outstanding game and shapes as a player with a bright future. Four Otago players were named in the South Island secondary school girls rugby team yesterday. They were Jessica Kendall, Ali Adams, Olivia George and Mary McGimpsey.
South Island secondary school girls team: Chloe Te Moananui, Millie Brooker, Devyn Wills, Cheylah Tuitupou, Lilly Tomlins, Julie Briden, Jessica Kendall, Kendall Buckingham, Amelia Manson, Sarah Crabbe, Patricia Hopcroft, Ali Adams, Taylor Aldridge, Riseleanna Pouri Lane, Amy de Plessis, Liv McGoverne, Becky Davidson, Olivia George, Cheyenne Cunningham, Mary McGimpsey, Nicole Kennedy, Rosie Kelly, Sydnee Wilkins, Jamee Te Moananui.
