Southland really on top now, looking likely to break at any stage. Chip through by Milne and he is taken out, ref goes upstairs asking about the penalty try!

TRY SOUTHLAND! Great response from the visitors, Robinson spreads it wide to Halahol, who shows great skill to chip the ball over the top and regather for an all important score. McKenzie again unsuccessful from the tee, but the gap is down to just two now.

Southalnd with a chance to instantly reply, as from the kick off Manson is pinged for offside. McKenzie pushes the penalty effort wide however.

TRY OTAGO! Great counter attacking move this, starting with a big hit from Moffat to force a knock on. Tanaka picks the ball up and sends it wide to Buxton Popoali'i who has too much pace for the cover and canters home. Parker with the extras.

Good period for the Stags, ending in a penalty. McKenzie finds touch from a penalty and after some good work from the forwards the homeside are pinged right in front of their own posts. McKenzie nails the easiest penalty he will get all year to level the scores.

Otago work the ball blind, making good ground before a knock on ends the move. frantic start to this one

Southland with their first attack of the day as McKenzie toes one through, but Popoali'i is again up to the task, covering well and clearing.

Buxton Popoali'i with a great break, going nearly the length of the field before being hauled down. Southland slow the ball down and concede a penalty, which Parker knocks over with ease. Ominous start from the home side.

First scrum of the day, Otago put in and its solid.

Hello and welcome to live coverage from todays game form the ITM cup. Its third plays fourth here in the ITM championship, with just a point separating these two at the start of play today. With Tasman running away with the lead at the top of the table, both of these sides will know that a win tonight is essential if they are to keep the pace. With plenty of talent on show, and the weather looking settled, we are surely in for an entertaining evenings rugby.