Wakatipu finishes well

WAKATIPU showed some steel in its 2012 win over Mossburn in the Southland division one game at the Queenstown Events Centre.

Both clubs had a large group of supporters watching as Wakatipu built a 170 lead at halftime.

Wakatipu coach Jamie Jenson said his team had a history of switching off in the second half.

‘‘We were guilty of that all of last season and the start of this season, but the boys showed some steel last night.

‘‘They defended great in the last quarter and kicked a penalty goal to seal it late.’’

Wakatipu No 8 Pat Mackey was player of the day, and tighthead prop Nathan Arbia and centre Ben Crossley were the other standouts from a good team performance.

Jenson said he was happy to be in this division.

‘‘It is a great comp, very even and everyone is enjoying it.’’

Albion Excelsior beat Waiau Star 2117 in Tuatapere on Wednesday night. Albion coach Richard Robinson said the game was a played at a frenetic pace and was very physical.

Albion held an 85 advantage at halftime. Fifteen minutes into the second half, the referee had a calf injury and it was looking like the game would be called off, but he soldiered on.

The lead changed hands several times in the second half. Albion captain Richard Lee has been a consistent performer all season and led from the front on Wednesday.

Blues B were leading Star B 210 on Thursday night at Les George when the lights went out, while Pioneer handed Waikiwi its first loss of the season, 4113.