In the division one Southland competition, Mossburn showed what it is capable of by beating leader Pioneer 32-15.
Mossburn was fired up on its club day, and put in a solid team effort to take the Speight's Shield.
In an even game throughout, Mossburn scored vital tries on either side of halftime and then pulled away to win.
Hooker Henry Benseman was a standout.
Pioneer coach Blake Korteweg said his team was light on numbers and had a few players carrying injuries.
"We were beaten by a strong-willed Mossburn team who wanted it more on the day.
"They were strong across the field and never allowed us to get into a rhythm.
"Hopefully, we can get another shot at them come finals time."
Albion Excelsior played its best 80 minutes of the season to beat Blues B 35-26 at the Gore Showgrounds.
Coach Richie Robinson said his side had the motivation of the club's sponsors' day and its last home game for the season.
Josh Cameron, Shaemus McGuigan and Luke Dawson were all playing their 50th game for the club.
"The big Blues pack made it a very long day for our boys, especially at scrum time," Robinson said.
"The way the boys kept turning up for each other on defence was really pleasing."
Waikiwi is equal fourth on the points table, but missed a chance to improve its points differential when Star B defaulted to it on Saturday. Wakatipu beat Waiau Star 55-24.
In the division two competition, Mataura thrashed Bush Pirates 64-0 at Tulloch Park.
Riverton beat Pirates Old Boys B 52-7.
Drummond Limehills secured the fourth semifinal spot after its 26-22 win over Ohai Nightcaps.
Blues third team defaulted to Balfour Lumsden and Woodlands B had the bye.
- John Langford