A feisty capacity crowd of 18,000 will be packed into Rugby Park, Invercargill this weekend for a reminder of the glory days of NZ provincial rugby when the Ranfurly Shield challenge & local rivalries meant everything. 
 
Otago haven't held the Shield since 1957 & were unsuccessful in 2 challenges last year. Meanwhile Southland get the chance to play in front of a packed crowd in what will be the biggest game of their lives for many of the team (especially compared to playing for the Highlanders).
 
Its going to be a cracker & even though Southland have had a far better build up & start to the season than Otago the Shield can lift players as Kees Meeuws points out.  It is a real one chance at glory for Otago.  Saying that I think Southland is just going to want it too much & I pick them the Oyster Catchers to win by 4 points.
 
If you're looking for a sneaky bet this weekend the TAB has given Otago a 10.5 points start which looks good value at $1-87 to me.