Pivot Ben Miller was tremendous value for the home team. He ran hard, kicked three penalties and a conversion. But his one-on-one strip towards the end of the match was crucial and characterised Kaikorai's desperation.
Southern snapped its four game losing-steak with a 45-24 win against Dunedin at Kettle Park.
Harbour dispatched Zingari-Richmond 62-26 victory at Watson Park, and Taieri held off Alhambra-Union to win 27-24 at the North Ground.
The Eels needed a little help from All Black Liam Squire, though. He came on for the second half and nabbed a crucial turnover in the final stages of the game.
It is his first game since November last year.