Grimly to secure win in Dunedin
after 15 minutes.
A try to second five-eighth Teihorangi Walden, complemented by a Smith penalty, soon had Otago back in touch at 15-13.
However, the telling moment of the half came just nine minutes before the break when Aumua powered his way through several tackles to score a superb try. Mitch Hunt’s conversion brought up his 50 points for the season.
Tasman were well worth their 22-13 halftime lead, showing confidence on attack and a willingness to keep the ball alive.
The second half began sensationally when Fraser awarded Tasman a penalty try when Otago first five-eighth Josh Ioane was yellow carded for allegedly knocking the ball down with the tryline beckoning.
The drama wasn’t over though, Ainley dispatched for an indiscretion at a ruck as both teams were reduced to 14 men. The controversy continued, Aumua then shown a red card with 24 minutes left to heap the pressure on Tasman. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Tasman showed plenty of resolve as Otago sensed a genuine opportunity.
Otago inevitably exploited the mismatch as tries to centre Sio Tomkinson and reserve loosie Sione Teu cut the margin to 29-27 with just under four minutes remaining.
An Otago knock on with a minute left on the clock ultimately saved Tasman’s bacon as they held on for a remarkable win.