Zingari-Richmond won a few battles but lost the war as Southern held on to a home-ground advantage to clinch a hard-fought 34-27 victory.
With the lead changing no fewer than nine times, the platform for Southern's victory came in the middle stages of the second half when its tight five began to assert itself through Warren Moffat and Johnny Mason, while captain and openside flanker Sam Gavigan remained a threat to the Zingari-Richmond defence throughout, scoring one try and setting up halfback Paul Burns for his.
Ben Patston was the standout player from the two sets of backs. His option-taking and clearance kicks were Andrew Mehrtens-like, with his ability to find and create space for his outside backs.
Chris Preddy and Jeremy Bekhuis were top of the props as they held the front line for Zingari-Richmond in the face of seasoned Southern pack. Both were instrumental in shutting down threats around the fringes while also posing a threat on attack, and earning their side two well-earned bonus points.
Their work was well rewarded with a superb captain's knock from Daniel Ramsay, who was instrumental in setting up his side's second try.
Fellow loosies Chris Bell and Cathal Feighery also had a high work rate. Add locks Callum Retallic and Brady Carmichael and this is a pack not to be underestimated.
Southern 34 (Harry Uffindell, Sam Gavigan, Joe Hill, Paul Burns tries; Ben Patston 4 con, 2 pen), Zingari-Richmond 27 (Ben Kent, Daniel Ramsay, Paul Pelesa, Sean Martin tries; Christian Walker 2 con 1 pen). Halftime: Southern 20-15. Referee: Hamish Davies.
