Four of top six found—who'll join them?
The wrap
So what do we know after last weekend's games? We have four teams through to the top six: Taieri, Dunedin, Kaikorai and Southern. But that is about it! I'll try to explain shortly. Predictably, Varsity put 70 on Zingers in a must-win game at Logan Park on Saturday. They are only one point off sixth spot so are still in it up to their eyeballs. Sadly, an understrength Zingers' season is done, and they play off for bragging rights against AU this weekend. Kaik breathed life into their season with a couple of late penalties to Ben Miller over Harbour to guarantee a spot in the six. Harbour let themselves down again with poor discipline, and their season hangs on a knife-edge. Southern confirmed a spot in the six with a comfortable win over GI, scoring five tries in the process. Defending champions GI also teeter on the abyss with one game to go. Taieri gave themselves a grand chance of bagging the Gallaway and top spot when they took their chances against the competition leaders Dunedin and also kept them scoreless. Conversely, Dunedin, after nine straight wins, struggled to get out of their own way and spurned numerous chances to score tries and win.
Where to from here?
As I said, four teams are in the six after the weekend, Taieri (46), Dunedin (44), Kaikorai (38), and Southern (38). That leaves Harbour (34), GI (33) and Varsity (32) fighting it out for the remaining two spots. We have three crucial games this weekend, with Taieri taking on Southern to determine who wins the Gallaway trophy and top spot in the six. Taieri, Dunedin and Southern could still all take it. GI and Harbour square off at Logan Park and whoever wins should make it, but it's not 100% guaranteed. Also, Kaikorai play Varsity and Varsity will make it if they win. The determining factor is that there is still 15 points to be allocated across five teams, as they've played one less game than the other four because of the split round. Let's not re-litigate that, as I have neither have the brainpower or the patience to attempt it! Let's just say it is not over till the fat lady reaches for the gargle water. Go to the ODT website (odt.co.nz) on Saturday about 5pm and I'll have a video up giving you all the answers. But you can't say it hasn't been close!
Belated congratulations
Didn't have room for it last week but a big congratulations to the AU Women's premier team for winning their final over the Sharks at Greenhouse two weeks ago. Dunedin had won the last two finals against them, but they did enough to bring the trophy back to the North Ground. They went out to a big lead in the first spell, but the Sharks rebounded to get within two; then the AU girls scored a late try to deservedly snare the title. Unfortunately, AU lost their captain Bella Rewiri-Wharerau with a broken leg during the game. Commiserations Bella and I hope the recuperation progress goes well and you're back playing sooner rather than later.
Finally cracks the ton
Word has it that MacKenzie (Macca) Palmer is set to play his 100th game this weekend for the Magpies against the Eels out at Eelpit. It couldn't be scripted better, as this is a crucial game in terms of positioning in the top six and the legendary Gallaway is up for grabs. In my opinion "Macca" has consistently been the best player in the competition over the last four or five seasons. He has definitely been a major reason why Southern have won two banners in recent years. At fullback he puts shudders down the spines of defenders in club land, as no-one is sure what he will do next. He is a free spirit and what he does on the paddock is not in the coaching manual — probably why Otago didn't want him, but they could do a lot worse. Good on ya mate for finally cracking the 100, no player deserves it more.
Form XV for June
15 Rique Miln (H), 14 Kyan Rangitutia (D), 11 Aaron McMurray (V), 13 Josh Whaanga (T), 12 Matt Whaanga (T), 10 Mika Muliaina (V) , 9 Taine Hand (K), 8 Louis Lepionka (D), 7 Slade McDowall (K), 6 Lucas Casey (K), 5 Reuben Palmer (D), 4 Aron Einarsson (S), 3 Cam Allan McNeill (T), 2 Fatai Koloi (D), 1 Ben Fakataha (H).
You wouldn't read about it
I mentioned last week that Rohan Wingham had been stood down for a couple of weeks to rest after his Highlanders campaign where he literally played no minutes. I heard whispers that it was because Saula Ma'u — the other Otago prop in the Landers — had played so many minutes, the powers that be decided Rohan needed to freshen up!
Then you'll never guess who played for Harbour at the weekend — Saula, go figure! I think I'm starting to see the strategy of the rugby committee on the board of Otago Rugby — it's saving money. From what I can work out, there are now five of the staff from the union coaching or managing Otago teams. Laudable, but I'm not quite sure how it works with the "coaching pathways" strategy. But you can't have everything.
This weekend
Benji and his mates from NZ Hockey destroyed me last week. The big news is they held on to the Nations Cup as well, great work. On to Joey Wheeler this week, so I will re-assert my former dominance. GI and Harbour square off at Logan Park No 6 in this crucial encounter. I think Harbour (12-) may just have enough firepower to get it done — but to be fair, it goes either way. Taieri at the Eelpit welcome Southern to the bog, with a lot riding on the game. The Magpies (12-) may just be big and strong enough to prevail, but again it's on a knife edge. In the battle of the cellar dwellers let's get behind AU (12-) to get that first elusive win over Zingers! Kaik (12-) are up on the high veldt awaiting Varsity. Kaik have won their last two and might end Varsity's season, but again it's close. What a great last round.
Lost to Finn Butcher (what a legend) last week and happy to do so when the unlucky Matak went down in the dying seconds to Cromwell. On to another legend this week in Troy Calteaux, the three-time digger driving champ of NZ from Toko. When I asked him how he went this year he said the organisers told him he "was a bit too good" and advised him against entering! Traditional enemies Clutha and Crescent go at it in Balclutha and there is no love lost, let me assure you — Clutha (12-) just. Heriot (12-) are at home to Owaka and the home team might get it done, but an upset wouldn't surprise. Clutha Valley (12-) will probably prevail over Lawrence at Clydevale. The Prison Guards are back on the Prison Square facing off against West Taieri (12-). I think Toko will have their hands full against the Pigs.
paul.dwyer@odt.co.nz
P.S. If you see a group of familiar faces wandering around a few grounds at the weekend, the 2015 champion Highlanders having a reunion. Have a good time, lads.
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Otago Daily Times
9 hours ago
- Otago Daily Times
West Taieri stalwart notches 300 games
It could be an expensive court session for Dave McNeill tonight. The veteran loose forward will bring up 300 games for the West Taieri Pigs today. Yes. 300. It is not a typo. It is just a remarkable achievement that has taken him 24 years. The 46-year-old made his debut for the Pigs in 2001. Helen Clarke was the prime minister. Social media was still just a twinkle in the eye of some future tech billionaire. And Canterbury beat Otago 30-19 in the NPC final. D'oh! But McNeill's only regret is he wished he had started a year earlier so he could have been part of the club's 100th jubilee as well as their 125th, which they celebrated last month. The truck driver loves rugby. But it is the feeling of being part of the community that keeps him coming back year after year. He enjoys the banter and listening to what the guys have been up to during the week. He has played alongside some of his team-mates for 15-odd years. "They're just a good bunch of guys and we have a laugh and a beer," he said. "That's probably the main thing. "It would have been nice to bring it up last weekend. We had a good win at home, but we're going to be away this weekend against Toko in the rain and stuff." He is not sure what has been planned to celebrate his milestone, but there will be a court session and a couple of his team-mates will also face justice for so-called crimes. Fellow loose forward Conner Jenkins will notch his 100th game and second five Pat Hamer is bringing up 50. "Between the three of us, it's quite a special day. Conner made a deal with me ... that I couldn't retire until he gets 100 games, so for us to both be doing it on the same day is really quite special." Most of McNeill's highlights have happened off the field. But there has been plenty to cheer about on the field as well. The Pigs used to compete in the Dunedin metropolitan grade, and they won the premier 2 title in 2017. That earned them a date with Green Island in the promotion-relegation fixture at Forsyth Barr Stadium. Green Island maintained their spot in the premier grade — now known as division 1 — with a 37-17 win. But it was McNeill's 200th game and he got to play at Forsyth Barr Stadium, so it was a memorable day. He also played in a preseason game with his son, Cameron Allan-McNeill, this season. Cameron plays for the Taieri premiers. They are still talking, despite the rivalry between the clubs. "He was going to come and play for us this year but Taieri sort of needed him. "He came out to a preseason game ... and I've played a few games with Cameron over the years." McNeill's father, Philip, also played for West Taieri. "I was brought up around here and spent most of my life around this place, basically." McNeill has talked about this season being his last, but in the same breath adds he would always answer an S.O.S. "I would never leave the team without players, so if they need me I'll probably come back. "But I should really be going to watch Cameron too. I do miss all his games, so I do feel a bit guilty at times." Speaking of guilt, good luck in the court session.
Otago Daily Times
a day ago
- Otago Daily Times
Four of top six found—who'll join them?
The wrap So what do we know after last weekend's games? We have four teams through to the top six: Taieri, Dunedin, Kaikorai and Southern. But that is about it! I'll try to explain shortly. Predictably, Varsity put 70 on Zingers in a must-win game at Logan Park on Saturday. They are only one point off sixth spot so are still in it up to their eyeballs. Sadly, an understrength Zingers' season is done, and they play off for bragging rights against AU this weekend. Kaik breathed life into their season with a couple of late penalties to Ben Miller over Harbour to guarantee a spot in the six. Harbour let themselves down again with poor discipline, and their season hangs on a knife-edge. Southern confirmed a spot in the six with a comfortable win over GI, scoring five tries in the process. Defending champions GI also teeter on the abyss with one game to go. Taieri gave themselves a grand chance of bagging the Gallaway and top spot when they took their chances against the competition leaders Dunedin and also kept them scoreless. Conversely, Dunedin, after nine straight wins, struggled to get out of their own way and spurned numerous chances to score tries and win. Where to from here? As I said, four teams are in the six after the weekend, Taieri (46), Dunedin (44), Kaikorai (38), and Southern (38). That leaves Harbour (34), GI (33) and Varsity (32) fighting it out for the remaining two spots. We have three crucial games this weekend, with Taieri taking on Southern to determine who wins the Gallaway trophy and top spot in the six. Taieri, Dunedin and Southern could still all take it. GI and Harbour square off at Logan Park and whoever wins should make it, but it's not 100% guaranteed. Also, Kaikorai play Varsity and Varsity will make it if they win. The determining factor is that there is still 15 points to be allocated across five teams, as they've played one less game than the other four because of the split round. Let's not re-litigate that, as I have neither have the brainpower or the patience to attempt it! Let's just say it is not over till the fat lady reaches for the gargle water. Go to the ODT website ( on Saturday about 5pm and I'll have a video up giving you all the answers. But you can't say it hasn't been close! Belated congratulations Didn't have room for it last week but a big congratulations to the AU Women's premier team for winning their final over the Sharks at Greenhouse two weeks ago. Dunedin had won the last two finals against them, but they did enough to bring the trophy back to the North Ground. They went out to a big lead in the first spell, but the Sharks rebounded to get within two; then the AU girls scored a late try to deservedly snare the title. Unfortunately, AU lost their captain Bella Rewiri-Wharerau with a broken leg during the game. Commiserations Bella and I hope the recuperation progress goes well and you're back playing sooner rather than later. Finally cracks the ton Word has it that MacKenzie (Macca) Palmer is set to play his 100th game this weekend for the Magpies against the Eels out at Eelpit. It couldn't be scripted better, as this is a crucial game in terms of positioning in the top six and the legendary Gallaway is up for grabs. In my opinion "Macca" has consistently been the best player in the competition over the last four or five seasons. He has definitely been a major reason why Southern have won two banners in recent years. At fullback he puts shudders down the spines of defenders in club land, as no-one is sure what he will do next. He is a free spirit and what he does on the paddock is not in the coaching manual — probably why Otago didn't want him, but they could do a lot worse. Good on ya mate for finally cracking the 100, no player deserves it more. Form XV for June 15 Rique Miln (H), 14 Kyan Rangitutia (D), 11 Aaron McMurray (V), 13 Josh Whaanga (T), 12 Matt Whaanga (T), 10 Mika Muliaina (V) , 9 Taine Hand (K), 8 Louis Lepionka (D), 7 Slade McDowall (K), 6 Lucas Casey (K), 5 Reuben Palmer (D), 4 Aron Einarsson (S), 3 Cam Allan McNeill (T), 2 Fatai Koloi (D), 1 Ben Fakataha (H). You wouldn't read about it I mentioned last week that Rohan Wingham had been stood down for a couple of weeks to rest after his Highlanders campaign where he literally played no minutes. I heard whispers that it was because Saula Ma'u — the other Otago prop in the Landers — had played so many minutes, the powers that be decided Rohan needed to freshen up! Then you'll never guess who played for Harbour at the weekend — Saula, go figure! I think I'm starting to see the strategy of the rugby committee on the board of Otago Rugby — it's saving money. From what I can work out, there are now five of the staff from the union coaching or managing Otago teams. Laudable, but I'm not quite sure how it works with the "coaching pathways" strategy. But you can't have everything. This weekend Benji and his mates from NZ Hockey destroyed me last week. The big news is they held on to the Nations Cup as well, great work. On to Joey Wheeler this week, so I will re-assert my former dominance. GI and Harbour square off at Logan Park No 6 in this crucial encounter. I think Harbour (12-) may just have enough firepower to get it done — but to be fair, it goes either way. Taieri at the Eelpit welcome Southern to the bog, with a lot riding on the game. The Magpies (12-) may just be big and strong enough to prevail, but again it's on a knife edge. In the battle of the cellar dwellers let's get behind AU (12-) to get that first elusive win over Zingers! Kaik (12-) are up on the high veldt awaiting Varsity. Kaik have won their last two and might end Varsity's season, but again it's close. What a great last round. Lost to Finn Butcher (what a legend) last week and happy to do so when the unlucky Matak went down in the dying seconds to Cromwell. On to another legend this week in Troy Calteaux, the three-time digger driving champ of NZ from Toko. When I asked him how he went this year he said the organisers told him he "was a bit too good" and advised him against entering! Traditional enemies Clutha and Crescent go at it in Balclutha and there is no love lost, let me assure you — Clutha (12-) just. Heriot (12-) are at home to Owaka and the home team might get it done, but an upset wouldn't surprise. Clutha Valley (12-) will probably prevail over Lawrence at Clydevale. The Prison Guards are back on the Prison Square facing off against West Taieri (12-). I think Toko will have their hands full against the Pigs. P.S. If you see a group of familiar faces wandering around a few grounds at the weekend, the 2015 champion Highlanders having a reunion. Have a good time, lads.
Otago Daily Times
a day ago
- Otago Daily Times
West Taieri stalwart notches 300
It could be an expensive court session for Dave McNeill tonight. The veteran loose forward will bring up 300 games for the West Taieri Pigs today. Yes. 300. It is not a typo. It is just a remarkable achievement that has taken him 24 years. The 46-year-old made his debut for the Pigs in 2001. Helen Clarke was the prime minister. Social media was still just a twinkle in the eye of some future tech billionaire. And Canterbury beat Otago 30-19 in the NPC final. D'oh! But McNeill's only regret is he wished he had started a year earlier so he could have been part of the club's 100th jubilee as well as their 125th, which they celebrated last month. The truck driver loves rugby. But it is the feeling of being part of the community that keeps him coming back year after year. He enjoys the banter and listening to what the guys have been up to during the week. He has played alongside some of his team-mates for 15-odd years. "They're just a good bunch of guys and we have a laugh and a beer," he said. "That's probably the main thing. "It would have been nice to bring it up last weekend. We had a good win at home, but we're going to be away this weekend against Toko in the rain and stuff." He is not sure what has been planned to celebrate his milestone, but there will be a court session and a couple of his team-mates will also face justice for so-called crimes. Fellow loose forward Conner Jenkins will notch his 100th game and second five Pat Hamer is bringing up 50. "Between the three of us, it's quite a special day. Conner made a deal with me ... that I couldn't retire until he gets 100 games, so for us to both be doing it on the same day is really quite special." Most of McNeill's highlights have happened off the field. But there has been plenty to cheer about on the field as well. The Pigs used to compete in the Dunedin metropolitan grade, and they won the premier 2 title in 2017. That earned them a date with Green Island in the promotion-relegation fixture at Forsyth Barr Stadium. Green Island maintained their spot in the premier grade — now known as division 1 — with a 37-17 win. But it was McNeill's 200th game and he got to play at Forsyth Barr Stadium, so it was a memorable day. He also played in a preseason game with his son, Cameron Allan-McNeill, this season. Cameron plays for the Taieri premiers. They are still talking, despite the rivalry between the clubs. "He was going to come and play for us this year but Taieri sort of needed him. "He came out to a preseason game ... and I've played a few games with Cameron over the years." McNeill's father, Philip, also played for West Taieri. "I was brought up around here and spent most of my life around this place, basically." McNeill has talked about this season being his last, but in the same breath adds he would always answer an S.O.S. "I would never leave the team without players, so if they need me I'll probably come back. "But I should really be going to watch Cameron too. I do miss all his games, so I do feel a bit guilty at times." Speaking of guilt, good luck in the court session.
