Rugby: Auckland hold off Otago fightback

Auckland halfback Taniela Moa. Photo / Getty Images

A late assault inspired by two rugby league converts wasn't enough as Otago lost 22-18 to Auckland in a fluctuating Air NZ Cup rugby match in Dunedin today.

Auckland nearly blew a 22-8 lead midway through the second spell at Carisbrook, conceding a try to winger Ryan Shortland and penalty to another former New Zealand Warriors league player, reserve first five-eighth Michael Witt.

However, it wasn't enough for Otago, whose sixth bonus point of the season keeps them in seventh place , one position behind the Aucklanders.

Despite coming second in both the possession and territory counts, Auckland scored three tries to two, boosted by an edge in the set pieces and better finishing.

They were also superior at filching ruck ball, forcing seven breakdown turnovers to Otago's none in a surprising statistic considering the comparative experience of the loose forward trios.

Fresh-faced flankers Hamish Paterson and Daniel Faleafa more than held their own against the better-credentialled Alando Soakai and Adam Thomson.

Both teams were coming off thumping wins last week and Auckland looked set for something similar to their 29-14 dunking of Bay of Plenty when captain Benson Stanley and prop Tevita Mailau scored tries within the space of six minutes soon after halftime.

That ultimately laid the foundation for a continuation of Auckland's unbeaten run against Otago since 2003.

They led 8-3 at halftime, with lock Kurtis Haiu scoring the only try courtesy of a quick tap from halfback Taniela Moa.

Otago first five-eighth Glenn Dickson slotted a penalty soon before halftime while explosive winger Karne Hesketh busted the defence for their first try in the 42nd minute.

Auckland first five-eighth Daniel Bowden was among their standouts, while the tight five scrummed well and forced some haywire work from an Otago lineout which had functioned well this season.

- NZPA