Maniototo and Alexandra played out a thriller at Ranfurly, the home side kicking a penalty in the final moments to win 13-10.
Both sides were fighting to make the top four.
Maniototo got out to a 10-3 lead with a converted try to dynamic flanker AJ Paton midway through the first half, followed by a Charlie Hore penalty goal.
Alexandra got three points back through the boot of first five-eighth Michael Paulin before the break.
Alexandra battled back through an excellent try to fullback Sam Cant. Paulin converted to level the scores at 10-10.
With three minutes to play, and the game on a knife-edge, Alexandra gave away a penalty for offside and Hore stepped up to kick his second penalty goal and win the match for the home side.
Alexandra's loose forward trio were in sublime form, while Nathan Huddleston was Maniototo's best on the day.
