Replacement winger David Thompson kicked a late penalty goal to give University A the win in a tight game at the University Oval.
The students led 7-6 at the break after having the better of the first half.
In the second spell Kaikorai held the initiative and took the lead when first five-eighth Cam Rutherford kicked his third penalty goal midway through the spell. The tight student defence denied Kaikorai points, and the students made better use of their chances when in scoring positions.
The Kaikorai loose forwards hunted effectively as a team with Hamish Crisp excelling at the breakdown.
Blindside flanker Seko Qaraniqio was the dominant player in the game with his strong running and line-out work.
The strong-tackling Kaikorai midfield of Matt Direen and Mark McGregor stopped the students from exploiting their talented backline.
Loose forward Hoani Matenga was the best of the student forwards and second five-eighth Andrew Parata had a strong defensive game in the backs.
University A 10 (Jeremy Aldworth try; Brad Nicol conversion, David Thomson penalty goal), Kaikorai 9 (Cam Rutherford 3 penalty goals).
Half-time: University A 7-6.
Referee: Doug Rodgers.
