By Campbell BurnesOtago 27Bay of Plenty 20Otago are into their first Championship final since 2012 and will host their first decider since the famous 1998 NPC climax at Carisbrook. From the get-go under the roof at Forsyth Barr Stadium, Otago sought to move the ball and keep it alive. The scrum battle was torrid, but Otago ultimately held the advantage in that area and in the collisions, where their defence was heavy. When Lentjes hustled over off a lineout drive, it was 21-6 and Otago were in the box seat. After three consecutive Championship semifinal defeats and some financial struggles, it appears Otago may again be ready to join the big guns of our provincial game.

Source: New Zealand Herald October 21, 2016 09:11 UTC