Hayden Meikle

It was golf, but not as they know it, for members of the Dunedin Metropolitan development squad yesterday.

Just like books, games must not be judged by their covers.

Their performances were separated by 19,000km and about 15 hours but both Daniel Vettori and Richie McCaw were toasted by New Zealand sports fans at the weekend.

Stu Kelly scored a late winner to lead Otago United to a gritty 1-0 win against Waikato in Ngaruawahia yesterday.

Glenn Forrester and Crete Whaanga hit lead-off home runs to inspire the Cardinals to an upset 9-4 win against Ellis Park on Saturday.

There was much excitement - and a little paranoia - at the end of the 1990s, which to be fair marked the end of a millennium.

Otago officials have reluctantly accepted the decision to retain 14 teams but would much prefer a smaller national championship.

The Highlanders have got All Blacks, experienced provincial players and exciting new talent in their squad next year.

There was a spring in the step of the Highlanders yesterday as they started preparations for what they hope will be a memorable Super 14 season.

Former Queensland Reds coach Phil Mooney and former Bay of Plenty coach Greg Smith may be surprise contenders for the Otago coaching job.

Otago's Michael Witt experiment lasted nine months.

Ho, ho, ho. My goodness, there are some great video games out this Christmas. Hayden Meikle picks out half a dozen for your stocking.

 

Like any good defender, Alex Chiet has an impeccable sense of timing.

Organisers are confident Rugby World Cup games in Dunedin will be played at the new Forsyth Barr Stadium, but have unveiled a ticketing scheme that covers the possibility of Carisbrook being used.

Martin Snedden is smart enough to know he can expect some grumbling over the next few days but is confident he can answer any critics.

Meet the Mathiesons and the Ludlows.