North Otago swamp Wanganui in one-way romp

6.00pm

NORTH OTAGO 73 WANGANUI 7

North Otago outclassed Wanganui in NPC third division rugby in Oamaru today.

North Otago scored 10 tries in a free-flowing game while first five-eighth Simon Porter kicked 19 points to hand Wanganui their second consecutive loss in the competition.

North Otago centre Fepikou Tatafu shredded the Wanganui midfield at will in the first half, bagging two tries and having a hand in several more.

The aggressive defence of the North Otago pack rattled the visitors into mistakes in their own territory, which the home side punished to lead by 40-0 at the break.

Wanganui held tight for 10 minutes after halftime, but North Otago then took control again as blockbusting prop Hotili Asi tapped a penalty and charged over the tryline from close range.

They then brought up the 50 in even time as winger Ofa Latu flew over in the corner.

North Otago lock Nathan Archibald was outstanding in defence, while the attacking flair shown by fullback Luke Herden proved too much for Wanganui.

Flanker Ray O'Fisa was rewarded with two tries for a strong allround game.

Wanganui centre Peter Booth accounted for Wanganui's sole try when North Otago conceded just their third try of the season.

North Otago three more tries in the last 12 minutes to seal a stunning victory.

Scores:-

North Otago 73 (Fepikou Tatafu 2, Ray O'Fisa 2, Ofa Latu, Toetu Palamo, Hotili Asi, Ray Gutsell, Tevita Asi, Gary Byrne tries; Simon Porter 3 pen, 5 con, Gutsell 2 con)

Wanganui 7 (Peter Booth try; Brendon Bartley con).

Half time: 40-0.

- OAMARU MAIL