Bay of Plenty Steamers vs Otago at Tauranga Domain

Bay of Plenty Steamer Terrence Hepetema passes the ball during a match with Otago in Tauranga today. Photo/George Novak

Today's rugby showdown between Bay of Plenty and Otago has been action packed.

4.23pm: Otago have narrowly defeated the Bay of Plenty Steamers 33-32.

Bay of Plenty Centre Lalakai Foketi scored his third try and the Steamers' fourth to set up a frantic finish but a late penalty goal clinched the match for Otago.

4pm: Otago had the better of the first 20 minutes of the second half so far and lead the Bay of Plenty Steamers 30-27.

Otago flanker Lee Allen has scored Otago's fourth try in the match so far.

But with 20 minutes to go and a big home crowd cheering them on, the Steamers are still a good chance to win this match.

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3.26pm: Bay of Plenty Steamers lead Otago 24-19 at half time at Tauranga Domain.

Both teams have scored three tries with the difference being Kelly Haimona's accurate goal kicking.

Centre Lalakai Foketi has scored two tries for Bay of Plenty with big prop Ziggy Fisi'ihoi also scoring one try.

Bay of Plenty finished the half hot on attack but were unable to add to their tally.

Earlier: A reporter at the game said Otago started the match with a superb try to fullback Michael Collins which was converted from the sideline to a 7-0 lead after four minutes.

But Bay of Plenty stormed back into the match with an equally good try by centre Lalakai Foketi.

Fellow steamer Kelly Haimona converted from out wide to tie the game 7-7 after 12 minutes.

A big and excited crowd is at domain enjoying the game.

Bay of Plenty Steamer Regan Ware makes a dash for it in today's match against Otago at Tauranga Domain. Photo/George Novak