Otago has successfully defended the Ranfurly Shield at Forsyth Barr Stadium this afternoon. It scored some stunning tries to defeat Waikato 45-35 with winger Vilimoni Koroi grabbing a double. Otago made the most of its chances and pulled ahead 42-21 with 15 minutes left which sealed the victory. Its final shield defence is next Saturday night against Canterbury. Otago 45 ( Vilimoi Koroi 2, Slade McDowall, Jona Nareki, Aleki Morris-Lome, Henry Purdy tries; Josh Ioane 3 con, 3 pen)Waikato 35 ( Samisoni Taukei'aho 2, Mitch Jacobson, Simon Parker tries; penalty try; Flecther Smith 5 con)Halftime: 20-14 Otago

Source: Otago Daily Times September 29, 2019 03:00 UTC