PM XIII impressive as Otago edge Waikato in epic NPC quarter-final

Execution off the tee will be the key focus for the Australian Prime Minister’s XIII after their 28-10 victory over Papua New Guinea at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.

Despite the wet conditions, the poor kicking performance was notable, as the team managed a disappointing zero from seven attempts, leaving points on the field.

The kicking duties were shared among three players, with none able to convert successfully. Jayden Campbell took the most attempts but went zero from four.

Parramatta’s Mitch Moses also struggled, missing both of his attempts, while the Dragons’ Kyle Flanagan failed to convert the last try.

The seven-try effort was enough for a commanding win, but the missed conversions kept the final score less reflective of their performance. But head coach Kevin Walters remained optimistic in his post-match comments.

“I’m happy with that performance, a lot of guys haven’t played for some time and got back into rhythm pretty well, so happy with the win,” Walters told reporters.

The scoreline did not dampen the spirits of Papua New Guinea, whose passionate fans continued to support the Kumuls in the rain.

They were rewarded in the 74th minute when powerhouse prop Epel Kapinias scored a try, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Morea Morea successfully converted, allowing PNG to finish on a high note.

Kumuls captain Nene Macdonald remained optimistic after the match. “We’ve still got some boys to boost it. We had a lot of chances there to take the game, and I think that’s where we need a bit more leadership.”.

The Kumuls will enjoy a well-earned rest this weekend before hosting the Cook Islands Atiu on Saturday, 25 October. Kick-off is scheduled for 6pm, New Zealand time.

Meanwhile, the Australian Jillaroos continued their unrelenting form, posting a commanding 50-0 win over the Papua New Guinea Orchids in the women's international fixture.

The reigning world champions have now won every match in this series by at least 50 points, and Sunday's performance reinforced the depth and professionalism of the women’s game in Australia.

With a 20-0 lead at halftime, the Jillaroos shifted into another gear after the break, while the Orchids, still in the development phase of their women's programme, struggled to keep up.

Despite the result, there were signs of growth from the PNG side, who are continuing to build their pathways and presence on the international stage.

NPC: Otago 44-41 Waikato

In other sporting news, Otago have booked their place in the National Provincial Championship semi-finals after an unforgettable 44-41 extra-time victory over Waikato in what may go down as the match of the season.

In a dramatic encounter at Forsyth Barr Stadium, it was a composed penalty kick from Cameron Miller in the 81st minute that sealed the win, shattering Waikato’s hopes.

The contest reached extra time after a last-minute try from Waikato and a conversion by Tepaea Cook-Savage levelled the score at 41-all.

Down to 14 men, Otago were handed a lifeline when Waikato were penalised for a late hit on lock Christian Lio-Willie. Flyhalf Cameron Millar, showing nerves of steel, slotted the long-range penalty to seal the win.

It was a seesawing battle from the first whistle. Otago struck first through halfback Dylan Pledger, who finished a slick chip-and-chase in the corner. Waikato were quick to respond, with former All Black Aaron Cruden slotting a penalty, followed by a well-worked try to winger Oli Mathis to edge the visitors in front.

The intensity only escalated in the second half, with neither side giving an inch. The match ended with six tries and four conversions apiece - a testament to the attacking intent and resilience shown on both sides.

Ultimately, it was Otago’s composure under pressure that proved decisive.

Otago will now host last year’s runners-up, Bay of Plenty, in Friday night’s semi-final at Forsyth Barr Stadium.

The second semi-final sees Canterbury take on Hawke’s Bay at Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch on Saturday. Both matches kick off at 7:15pm, New Zealand time. Click here for more fixtures and results.