The Citizens Shield. Photo: Rugby In North Otago It has been a big week for some of North Otago’s top talent. They pulled on the gold jersey for what is always a notable occasion, taking on neighbouring Otago in North Otago’s Tuesday night’s challenge for the Ranfurly Shield in Dunedin. The Old Golds lost 46-14 — but won the second half 14-12, and at times made the NPC side look rather average given how good they were last year. But representative honours are back on hold until the Heartland Championship, and things resume as normal with round 10 of the Citizens Shield competition tomorrow. As club rugby returns, after taking a break last weekend in preparation for the Log o’ Wood clash, Valley remain top of the table. They are still the benchmark and are unbeaten with eight wins and one draw for 41 points — 16 points ahead of their closest rivals. Excelsior hold second spot with four wins and five losses, giving the defending champions 25 points. That is the same as third-placed Athletic Marist, who have four wins, one draw and five losses. Maheno sneak in at fourth spot and have four wins and five losses ahead of Old Boys, who are fifth with four wins and five losses for 23 points. Kurow have pushed teams but are out of playoff contention with two wins and seven losses for 14 points. The Red Devils will host Valley tomorrow in the country battle of the round. Only seven points separated the two last time. Blues host Maheno. The green machine won 42-40 under the lights last time and it could be another intriguing clash between the two teams. Old Boys v Athies shapes as the game of the round. Both sides are packed with Pasifika flair, which always makes for a fan-favourite clash. Old Boys won 31-24 when they met last month to claim the Pasifika Kings of Rugby Bowl for the first time. They will be searching for a big win to help them jump into the playoffs, with two weeks of crossover rounds ahead.
