Massey University’s game against Havelock North Wanderers on Saturday saw them narrowly lose 2-1 (file photo).
They’re now in fourth-equal place on the ladder with Athletic after the Whanganui side moved up after beating Napier 2-0.
Piper said Massey’s defeat by Wanderers didn’t reflect the way the game went.
“We played with the best intensity I’ve seen in any game we’ve been involved in. It was a hell of a game.
“I’m proud of the performance but disappointed at the result. We gave it all we had because we knew we needed to win it to win the league.”