Otago Country proved it was not out of its depth against a Heartland Championship union despite being beaten 26-23 by 2006 champion Wairarapa-Bush in Masterton on Saturday.
Country coach David Latta, speaking from Wellington, described as "anxious" and "nervy" his side's performance in its first match of a three-game tour.
He said his team could have won the game if it had not made simple handling errors and other silly mistakes.
Country opened its scoring through a try to Upper Clutha fullback Ben Purvis, playing on the wing, when he finished off a move after several phases.
Former Highlanders and Otago first five-eighth Charlie Hore, playing at second five-eighth, grabbed the team's only other try midway through the second half.
Lawrence and former Taranaki first five-eighth Sam Young had a solid day with the boot, converting both tries and kicking three penalty goals.
For much of the game, Otago Country's forward pack competed well in the set phases, pushing the Wairarapa-Bush pack around the park and stealing an impressive amount of ball in the line-out.
Wairarapa-Bush's loose forwards controlled a lot of ball in the rucks and mauls, and Latta said they played a big part in the side's win.
Halfback James Kenny had an impressive game for Country, providing excellent delivery for halves partner Young, controlling the forward pack well and taking appropriate options.
Purvis was the other Country player to stand out, running well and providing the support needed for schoolboy fullback Matt Faddes.
Otago Country's next game is against Horowhenua-Kapiti in Levin at 7pm tomorrow.
Wairarapa-Bush 26, Otago Country 23 (Ben Purvis, Charlie Hore tries; Sam Young 2 conversions, 3 penalty goals).
Half-time: Wairarapa-Bush 13-8.
