Otago Boys’ first XV came from behind to clinch a victory against rival Southland Boys’ on Saturday.
Otago Boys’ scored two quick tries in the final 10 minutes at home to win 22-18 in the Otago Schools Rugby Championship division one game.
Coach Regan Turoa was rapt with his side’s win after backing up from its midweek loss against Christchurch Boys’.
"The call went on to just change tactics a little bit and start to spread it a bit and paid off — really happy," Turoa said.
It was a special game for Otago Boys’, as players from the 1973 first XV celebrated their 50-year reunion at the game.
"We had a special jersey presentation with them the night before and it really made a big difference to our, I guess, our focus going into the game."
Otago Boys’ got off to a strong start and was rewarded when Manaia Lesa scored in the 16th minute.
However, Southland Boys’ hit back almost immediately with a converted try and a penalty later in the half to lead 10-8 at the break.
The visiting side picked up where it left off, taking penalty opportunities early in the third quarter, and scoring another try to extend the lead to 17-8.
That was when Otago Boys’ needed to stand up and make something happen.
Replacement hooker Siaosi Asi took it upon himself, scoring for his side, and a Rota Lafita conversion meant the home side trailed by two.
Minutes later, Isaac Turoa sealed the deal, getting over the line and Lafita lined the ball up again to clinch a good win.
In the other division one games, John McGlashan has a good 30-5 win over King’s and Wakatipu beat South Otago 39-19.
In division two, Otago Boy’s 2nd XV thumped Mt Aspiring 41-12, Dunstan defeated Taieri 22-17 mid-week and St Kevin’s downed Waitaki Boys’ 32-28 in the blood match.
