Fullback Tony Ensor scored a spectacular runaway try nine minutes from the end to clinch a deserved win for Kaikorai over previously unbeaten Alhambra-Union at Bishopscourt.
Ensor swooped on a loose pass inside his 22 and sprinted 80m to the posts to give Kaikorai the lead for the first time.
Kaikorai dominated territory but trailed 3-7 at halftime. It turned down four kickable penalties and was not able to penetrate a well-organised Alhambra-Union defence.
Wingers Sam Young and Bryce Morgan both went close to scoring but it was a half of lost opportunities for Kaikorai.
Peter Breen scored Alhambra-Union's try early in the game when he sidestepped and broke some ineffectual tackles to score by the posts.
Alhambra-Union retained the lead 10-6 until Ensor's breakout try and Cameron Rutherford rammed home the advantage with a penalty from 40m.
Rutherford kicked four from six for Kaikorai while Ensor, apart from his try, was the most dangerous attacking back in the game.
Lee Allen and Adam Hill were tigerish loose forwards, while hard-working lock Blair Tweed had a solid all-round game in what was a committed Kaikorai pack.
Alhambra-Union spent much of the game on the back foot.
Mike Moeahu and Breen controlled play well in the inside backs and lock James Willocks and hooker Ben Peraira were good value in the forwards but, overall, the score reflected Kaikorai's greater desire to win.
Kaikorai 16 (Tony Ensor try, Cam Rutherford con, 3 pens); Alhambra-Union 10 (Peter Breen try, con, pen). Halftime: 3-7. Referee: Adam Morrison.
