Kavanagh College claimed its second win in the Otago Secondary Schools First XV competition with a 38-17 win over Mount Aspiring College at Kettle Park today.
Kavanagh coach Jacinta Nielsen said it was good for both teams to play an opponent at a similar level.
"It was a good even game because both teams have been struggling with the bigger forward packs and the bigger teams," Nielsen said.
"It was a good test for both teams because we're pretty much on the same level.
"The game could have gone either way."
After the scores were locked at 12-12 at the break, Kavanagh became more dominant with ball in hand in the second half. They looked to use their forwards with pick and go and runners off their first five-eighth, before going wider to allow their backs to finish. That, along with a couple of chip kicks which led to tries, saw them control the second half.
The game was an indication of where both teams wanted to be, Nielsen said.
"I think both teams enjoyed the game because they weren't getting smashed.
"We're going to be in the next section together and after talking with both teams after the game, everyone felt that was the level they should be playing at."
The size of players has become increasingly relevant in school rugby in modern times and it was something Nielsen believed made a difference against the top teams.
"We're finding it [playing against the top teams] a challenge definitely. The boys never give up, they always put their heart and soul into each of the games," she said.
"Some of those big boys are very big. I kind of thought I had a couple of big boys and then you turn around and see some of the other First XV's and it's like, woah. But it is what it is."
That has not discouraged them though, as they continue to strive to be their best.
"Our goal is to be as competitive as we can and to continue on what we've been building on, to turn up and play 110% each week."
In other games Otago Boys' High School 2nd XV handed South Otago High School their third loss in as many weeks, with a 32-27 scoreline. The teams entered the weekend tied on 26 points in third place and the win sees Otago Boys' open up a gap in a congested part of the table.
They have a long way to go to catch the top two teams though. John McGlashan College remained unbeaten with a 96-0 win over St Kevin's College, taking their total competition points to 44, having dropped just one bonus point all year. They have now scored 548 points in this year's competition, while conceding just 61.
Waitaki Boys' High School, who beat Taieri College by default today, are in second place on 40 points.
King's High School claimed a 24-19 away win over Dunstan High School to overtake the Alexandra school in fifth place.
