University and the East Coast Eagles remain unbeaten after the second round of the Otago-Southland combined rugby league competition was completed on Saturday.
University put on a dominant display, winning 72-14 against the Winton Warlords in Dunedin. The University side made massive metres through the middle due to the efforts of Tyson Ball and Jong Hoon Lee. Both the strong forwards crashed through tackles at will and put points on the board, with Ball scoring a try and Lee helping himself to three tries.
A man of the match performance from University captain Ricki Allan also helped them dominate the contest. Allan made 29 tackles, had 13 hit-ups, and scored three tries.
The East Coast Eagles beat Cooks RLC 48-32 in a physical encounter in Dunedin. The Eagles' powerful forwards paved the way with tenacious defence and some big carries.
Jordan Fuatavai led the charge with two tries, and Sonny McLean scored a try and set up centre Mikal Tuari for two tries. The first half effort was key for the Eagles, and they headed into the break with a 20-6 lead.
Cooks came back as fatigue and repeat sets started to take toll for East Coast but the Eagles were able to weather the storm and hang on to a good win.
The South Pacific Raiders went down 70-12 against a dominant Cowboys side in Invercargill. The Raiders have had a tough couple of weeks now with losses against He Tauaa and Cowboys.
Coach Dave Reedy lamented the basic errors and missed tackles that cost his side greatly.
The Kia Toa Tigers also travelled south for their game against He Tauaa and also came up short, with He Tauaa winning 46-18. The Tigers were put under pressure in the first half, with the He Tauaa forwards laying a platform for some great attacking play. The second half efforts from the Tigers were better, and they were rewarded with three tries, but He Tauaa closed the game out for a well deserved win.
