In a physical and niggly contest, the home side successfully retained both the McIntosh Cup and the Turnbull Cup.
Clutha Valley laid a strong platform in the opening half, dominating the scrum and controlling possession.
Their ability to apply pressure through repeated scrum penalties kept Clutha on the back foot for extended periods, while their work in the collision area disrupted the home side’s rhythm.
However, the visitors were unable to fully capitalise on their dominance, allowing Clutha to remain within striking distance.
A late first-half try helped Clutha narrow the margin to 13-12 at the break.
Clutha responded strongly after halftime, lifting their intensity and making better use of possession.
With both benches emptied, the home side’s replacements injected greater energy and physicality, ultimately proving decisive as Clutha pulled away.
Lock Connor Mills was outstanding, scoring a hat-trick and showcasing impressive mobility and finishing ability in open play.
West Taieri also preserved their unbeaten run with a comprehensive 41-15 win over Crescent under lights at Outram.
The home side capitalised on a slow start from Crescent, building an early advantage and taking a commanding 29-0 lead into halftime.
Crescent responded with a sustained period of possession in the second half, crossing for three tries to re-enter the contest.
However, West Taieri absorbed the pressure effectively and finished strongly to extend the margin.
Prop Zak Russell produced a powerful performance up front, while captain Conor Beaton led by example.
For Crescent, winger Jackson Cook posed a consistent attacking threat and performed reliably under the high ball.
Owaka secured their second win of the season in dramatic fashion, edging Lawrence 18-12 with a last-minute try in Lawrence.
The first half was closely contested.
Owaka’s forward pack asserted dominance, while Lawrence’s backs looked dangerous in open play.
Fullback Jaxon Bennington scored the only try of the half, although Owaka held a narrow 6-5 lead at the interval.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Lawrence creating opportunities but unable to fully convert, often being relieved by Owaka’s dominant scrum.
Bennington’s second try gave Lawrence a 12-11 lead late in the game, but Owaka mounted one final attack.
From a powerful scrum near the line, No 8 Craig McCormick controlled the ball at the base and crossed to secure a late victory.
Toko delivered a dominant performance in their 59-5 win over Clinton.
Built on a strong forward platform, Toko’s set piece provided consistent front-foot ball, allowing them to convert territory into points with efficiency.
The visitors scored nine tries, repeatedly capitalising on opportunities inside Clinton’s 22m. Clinton’s defensive efforts were commendable, but sustained pressure eventually took its toll.
The Ferguson family, Keegan and Brodie, continued their impressive try-scoring form, each crossing twice in a bid to catch brother Liam, who is scoring tries for fun further south.
By Francis Parker
