University A played a more precise and controlled game to score four tries and beat Taieri at Peter Johnstone Park.
The quick passing of the University A backline and its efficient use of the ball mesmerised the opposition and led to holes opening up within the Taieri defensive screen.
Ryan Grant was nippy in the midfield and was able to find gaps in the defence, while centre Brett Mather used his strength to score two tries.
The student backline was fed efficiently by halfback Henry McLernon who had a good understanding with No 8 Brad Cameron.
The Taieri forwards were a solid unit and they matched the students with flanker Jeremy Corliss having an outstanding game.
He made a strong run down the sideline in the second half that should have led to a try if there had been support.
Winger Todd Ford scored an early try to give Taieri the lead that it held until just before half-time when the students scored two late tries to lead 17-7 at the break.
The students put a lot of pressure on the Taieri inside backs and Michael Witt, at first five-eighth, was not able to reproduce the flair he had displayed in rugby league.
University A 24 (Brett Mather 2, Chris Black, Simon Forrest tries; Brad Nicol 2 conversions), Taieri 10 (Todd Ford try; Michael Witt conversion, penalty goal).
Half-time: University 17-7.
Referee: Jeff Grubb.
