Otago and Canterbury have a win in the bank each heading into the final couple of rounds of the South Island under-19 tournament.
Otago beat Southland 24-17 last week and Canterbury edged Tasman 29-19.
If form is a reliable guide, then the two teams will play off for the title at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Monday in their final round-robin game.
But they have to win today’s games first for that likely scenario to unfold.
Otago will play Tasman at Logan Park No 6, and Canterbury will jostle with Southland at Tahuna Park. Both games kick off at 6pm.
The format is a straight three-game round-robin. The team with the most points claim the crown.
Otago will lean on the likes of massive Dunedin lock Reuben Palmer and impressive Kaikorai tighthead Moana Takataka to get parity — or better — up front.
Former All Black Taine Randell’s son, Lanson Randell, has emerged as a leader as well, while backs Jack Timu, son of former All Black John Timu, and Charlie Breen shape as dual threats with the ball.
Southland has a collection of quality players too. Front-rower Hunter Fahey and loose forward Liam McIntosh have promising careers ahead.
Utility back Caleb Williams is another handy player and can pop up just about anywhere in their backline.
Lock Hunter Areaiiti Burgess is highly-rated and terrorised Otago’s lineout last week.
