Classy first five-eighth Chris Noakes helped University A seal victory over Pirates with an accurate boot and some nimble footwork in bleak conditions at Hancock Park.
Noakes jigged his way through Pirates' defence 5min before half-time to give his side a 14-0 lead at the break.
Earlier, prop Tom Dolezel crashed over to open the scoring.
But, despite University dominating the scoring, Pirates had the better of the tight encounters and with a generous wind at its back mounted a comeback.
Blindside flanker Josh Clark was rewarded for some tireless work when his pack helped drive him over, and No 8 Warren Kearney showed great determination, spinning out of several tackles and getting across the line for Pirates' second try with 10min remaining.
Lock Anthony Teaupa also featured in some bulldozing drives as his team laid siege to the students' line.
But when it mattered the most, the University pack was able to hold on to the ball through Hoani Matenga, who made some telling drives, and busy No 8 Chris Black.
Noakes' educated boot ensured University was not bogged down defending for the entire second period.
But his three second half penalties ultimately proved the difference.
University A 23 (Tom Dolezel, Chris Noakes tries; Noakes 2 conversions, 3 penalty goals), Pirates 14 (Warren Kearney, Josh Clark tries; Glenn Dickson 2 conversions).
Half-time: University A 14-0.
Referee: Dave Kennedy.
