The Otago B team was dealt a tough blow, going down in the last minute 24-19 to Canterbury Metro in Christchurch on Saturday.
With the scores tied 19-19 and time up on the clock Otago was awarded a penalty 45m out and a chance to win the game.
Matt Whaanga’s kick fell agonisingly short and Canterbury quickly moved the ball, breaking out from its line. After a couple of quick phases it moved the ball wide and scored in the corner to get the win.
It was a cruel way to finish for Otago as it had fought back into the game after trailing 19-5 and was dominating the final quarter.
Canterbury Metro started well and scored a try after only three minutes but Otago regrouped to level things up with a well-taken try to left-winger Manu Samate-Palu.
Canterbury scored on the stroke of halftime to lead 12-5 at the break, and then scored straight after halftime extending the lead to 19-5.
Otago sparked up after this and its forwards gained the upper hand through the scrum and lineout.
Prop Mike Mata’afa crashed over and Whaanga converted to close the gap and then winger Adam Simpson then used his pace to outstrip the defence. Whaanga’s conversion tied the scores.
Otago was finishing stronger and Canterbury was hanging on with some good defence.
The home team was conceding penalties but Otago was unable to take its chances to win the game.
• Otago Under-19 was beaten 62-19 by Tasman in Nelson on Saturday. Tasman led 36-0 at halftime.