Auks bounce back

Most impressive was that they withstood a stoic Otago fightback, when the 2004 version might have wilted under the pressure, before they posted two late tries to ease them out to a comfortable victory and a valuable bonus point.

Auckland burst out of the blocks to lead 17-0 after only 16 minutes but the home side chipped away at the lead to reduce the gap to 17-16 with 24 minutes to play. Momentum was with the home side, even if luck was not.

It had all started so well for Auckland when they were gifted a try to Sam Tuitupou when the second five-eighths charged down and regathered a Nick Reily clearing kick and it looked like a mountain for Otago to climb when Doug Howlett rounded off a flowing backline move soon after.

They played with pace, purpose and imagination as they attacked from anywhere and everywhere and were so clinical the disappointing crowd of no more than 5000 were left shaking their heads in disbelief.

Such was the faith the local commentators had in their side record losses were mentioned (60-3).

But that was quickly forgotten on the back of a more organised defence and some incisive running from livewire halfback Chris Smylie who showed why he has kept Danny Lee on the bench. The former North Harbour player sniped away at half-gaps and put his side on the front foot.

They chipped away at the lead through a couple of Nick Evans penalties and a try to openside Alando Soakai to reduce the gap to 17-13 at halftime. Auckland looked more vulnerable, passes went astray including a shocking forward pass from Joe Rokocoko, as Otago dominated possession and territory. Otago refused to buckle in defence and looked the more dangerous on attack as Auckland went into their shell and were guilty of basic errors.

At 17-16, Otago looked the more likely as they dominated possession and attacked the around the fringes. However, they just couldn't convert that pressure into points and Auckland struck with a glorious 80m try when Jerome Kaino crossed in the 70th minute.

And the tide turned. Brent Ward followed soon after to grab Aucklands fourth try, earning them a bonus point, to make the game safe.

Otago 16

(A. Soakai try, N. Evans pen, con)

Auckland 31

(S. Tuitupou, D. Howlett, J. Kaino, B. Ward tries, B. Ward pen, 4 cons)

- HERALD ON SUNDAY