Otago Metro South were arguably the favourites, but Metro North got stuck in and were rewarded with the Tuppy Diack Shield.
Both Dunedin teams went into the final round of the inaugural tournament unbeaten.
Metro South had secured the more impressive wins, but North lifted their game.
McDowall, who was in top form for his Kaikorai club this season, was the standout.
He shadowed the ball and tackled like a demon. He continues to press hard for an opportunity for Otago this season.
Dale made some strong carries and chipped in defensively, while veteran loosie Elton had an industrious game as well.
Halfback Bob Martin and first five Rique Miln combined beautifully for the North.
Miln bagged two five-pointers. He is another player pressing hard for representative duties.
The North led 19-7 at the break.
The South got a couple of yellow cards in the match.
Flanker Amos Roddick got 10 minutes in the bin late in the first spell, and mercurial back Mackenzie Palmer took a seat on the naughty step as well.
Roddick had a solid game for the South despite his yellow card. Otago No 8 Konrad Taleafoa and back-up Otago lock Josh Tengblad had tidy games.
In the other Tuppy Diack game, Otago Country battled to a 10-10 draw with Southland Country in Balclutha.
Brenton Howden scored the only try of the first half as Southland Country held a 5-0 lead at the break.
That was still the score with 15 minutes to play before Otago Country co-captain Tyler Ford scored a converted try.
Brodie Hume regained the lead for the Southlanders, but Jared Hayes kicked a late penalty to seal the draw and ensure Otago Country retained the Donaghys Shield.
