The semifinals are set in Dunedin premier club rugby.
Southern soaked up some early pressure to romp to a 41-15 win over Zingari-Richmond, who had a player shown a red card in the second half.
Southern will play Green Island, and Dunedin will host University, next Saturday.
Top qualifiers Green Island were beaten 31-25 by University at Miller Park this afternoon, but the Grizzlies survive for another week as the highest-ranked loser.
![University's Mac Harris, centre, is tackled by Green Island's Riley Lucas, right, with Vilimone...](https://www.odt.co.nz/sites/default/files/styles/odt_square_extra_large/public/story/2024/07/gi_v_varsity_a.jpg?itok=eqJvsuK6)
University's Mac Harris, centre, is tackled by Green Island's Riley Lucas, right, with Vilimone Bainibure, left, in support. Photo: Gregor Richardson
The Magpies are now the highest-seeded team, and on the evidence of today’s win will take some beating.
Dunedin beat Kaikorai 39-20 to claim the final spot in the semifinals, where they will have their hands full with a University team hitting their straps.