John McGlashan College have beaten Waitaki Boys' High School 23-0 in the final of the Otago Secondary Schools First XV competition today, claiming their second title in as many years.
It was the third time John McGlashan had beaten the Oamaru school this year, finishing the competition unbeaten and in impressive form.
Their defence, which has conceded just 77 points all season, was once again to the fore. Despite having their chances, Waitaki Boys' simply could not find a way through, as John McGlashan tackled aggressively and forced mistakes.
autoplay:0]On attack John McGlashan kept the ball in hand, building phases and retaining possession. They were well-organised and the speed at which they got players to the breakdown made it hard for Waitaki Boys' to get the ball back.
They scored 18 points in the first half and it proved to be more than enough.
Waitaki Boys' had a period of dominance midway through the second half after John McGlashan were reduced to 14-players. However the John McGlashan defence rallied and despite being stuck on their line, did not let anything through.
John McGlashan then extended the score via a late try, breaking the second half deadlock.
Their prize is a playoff game against Otago Boys' High School next week.