Centre Matt Direen played a key role in Kaikorai's upset win over Southern at Bathgate Park.
He has always had sound defensive skills, but it was his attacking ability that led to Kaikorai's two tries.
The first, after 33 minutes, came when Direen burst into the Southern 22m and halfback Guy Ferguson was up in support to score the try.
The second, and winning, try came with five minutes left when fullback Bevan Passmore scored after receiving a cut-out pass from Direen.
These were the only bright spots in a game punctuated by mistakes and basic errors by both sides.
Kaikorai led 7-6 at half-time, but midway through the second spell halfback Joe Burford scored to give Southern a 13-7 lead.
Other players to impress for Kaikorai were the hard-tackling Mark McGregor in the midfield and Kensack Palepoi at No 8.
Flanker Simon Knight and the front row of Warren Moffat, Jed Vercoe and Robbie Hunter were the best of the Southern forwards.
Luke Herden was the best of the backs.
Kaikorai 17 (Bevan Passmore, Guy Ferguson tries; Cam Rutherford 2 conversions, penalty goal),
Southern 13 (Joe Burford try; Craig Sneddon conversion, 2 penalty goals).
Half-time: Kaikorai 7-6.
Referee: Tim Baker.
