Otago showed plenty of enterprise in the first half against North Harbour at Albany tonight and held a hand 23 to 9 lead going into the halftime break. Tires to prop Halani Aulika and wing Joe Hill gave the visitors confidence and what was a one-sided half. The second half was all the home team with two tries to open side flanker Malakai Ravulo in the 53rd and 79th minutes, which put the game beyond doubt. Otago now head home for their next clash against Taranaki at Carisbrook.
North Harbour 35 (Malakai Ravulo 2 tries, Ben Boticia 1 con, 5 Pen, Luke McAlister 1 Con, 2 Pen) Otago 23 (Halani Aulika 1 Try, Joe Hill 1 Try, Glenn Dickson 2 Con, 3 Pen).