A strong performance into the wind helped Otago B to a comfortable win over Southland B yesterday.
Playing into a strong wind at Kettle Park, Otago scored four-first half tries to lead 24-0 and take control at the break.
It went on to win 48-14 as it prepares for its six-game season, in which it will look to defend its title in the South Island B competition.
Wingers Adam Simpson and Mone Samate Paul both scored tries in the first 10 minutes, allowing Otago to shoot out to a 10-0 lead.
It established dominance up front and gave the backs front-foot ball, which enabled halfback Kurt Hammer to score the side’s third try.
He went over close to the posts and Thomas Johnson duly converted. Second five-eighth Matt Whaanga added another right on halftime.
Both sides made several changes at halftime and one of those, Josh Casey, scored four minutes into the second half for Otago.
That took the score to 29-0, before fullback Taylor Haugh finished on the end of some exciting play from the Otago backs.
He converted his own try to take the score to 36-0, before Southland fought back with two quick tries.
Otago finished more strongly though, as centre Lisala Halaleva and No8 Iakopo Mapu both crossed for tries.