Eli’s first live game a winner

Eli Taia (3) celebrates the Southland Stags’ 11-10 victory against North Harbour in a Mitre 10 Cup match at Rugby Park in Invercargill with the Stags’ mascot, Steve-O, on Saturday.

Not only was it the Stags’ first match of the season at its home ground, it also Eli’s first match as a spectator.

His grandfather, Arthur Adlam, said Eli loved to watch rugby and play with a rugby ball, so it was a wonderful opportunity be able to take him to his first game.

"It is great to be back here in the park as it is a completely different atmosphere than watching the games from the TV. It is much more fun," Mr Adlam said.

Rugby Southland marketing co-ordinator Jack King said it was "one of the biggest crowds" of the past few years and the fans made the difference.