Thames Valley 20
East Coast 3
KEY POINTS:
Thames Valley scored their first victory in this season's Heartland Championship with a flattering win over East Coast in Ruatoria yesterday. Ahead 10-3 with five minutes remaining, Thames Valley scored late tries to replacement forward Duncan Leaske and left winger Lance Easton.
The visitors started well and deservedly led 10-0 after 20 minutes through a try to centre Michael Campbell, converted by David Harrison, who also added a penalty. From then until the 75th minute, East Coast dominated possession and territory but failed to capitalise.
"We've only ourselves to blame," said East Coast coach Denzil Moeke, whose team are winless after three rounds. East Coast halfback Charlie Harrison stood out, while Thames Valley lock Nick Purcell, halfback Simon Adams and fullback Chris Doak were sound under pressure during a hectic second half.
Meanwhile, South Canterbury produced the biggest upset of the Heartland season by beating North Otago 18-10 in Oamaru. It was a disappointing performance from defending Heartland champions North Otago, who lacked continuity and squandered opportunities.
North Otago's discipline let them down in the final 10 minutes when fullback Pale Tuilagi was sinbinned and South Canterbury halfback Scott Norton kicked two penalties from close range to secure the win.
Wanganui continued their unbeaten run with a 36-16 home win over Poverty Bay.
Also undefeated are Mid Canterbury after beating King Country 32-17 in Ashburton.
The visitors looked like taking a handy lead into halftime but Mid Canterbury made the most of their first real try-scoring opportunity by putting first-five Kieran Lindsay across beside the goalposts to tie the scores at 10-10 at the break.
Mid Canterbury were a different side in the second half and scored pushover tries to hooker James Carr and prop Craig Dunlea, before flanker Jon Dampney joined them on the scorecard and Lindsay crossed for his second.
Buller used the ball-carrying skills of No 8 Jo Yalayala to telling effect in their 11-8 win over Wairarapa-Bush.
