KEY POINTS:
South Canterbury produced the biggest upset of rugby's Heartland Championship this season by beating North Otago 18-10 in Oamaru today.
It was a disappointing performance from defending Heartland champions North Otago, who lacked continuity and squandered any opportunities they created.
South Canterbury's forwards were outstanding, with flanker Eric Smith and lock Tui Tauelangi particularly impressive.
The game swung in South Canterbury's favour when Malaki Fonua scored his second try with 20 minutes remaining from a fine, floating pass from Richard Preston, to put them ahead 12-7.
North Otago's discipline let them down in the final 10min when fullback Pale Tuilagi was sinbinned.
South Canterbury halfback Scott Norton kicked two penalties from close range to secure the win.
South Canterbury 18 (Malaki Fonua 2 tries; Scott Norton 2 pen, Luke Reihana con) North Otago 10 (Jeremy Te Huia try; Pale Tuilagi pen, con). Halftime: 5-7.
- NZPA
