South Canterbury fight back to beat North Otago

South Canterbury overturned a big halftime deficit to win their Heartland Championship rugby match 26-22 over North Otago in Oamaru today.

South Cangterbury were behind 6-22 after conceding three first-half tries but fought their way back into the contest by gaining forward ascendancy.

The turning point came as late as the 71st minute when lock Andrew Scarlett scored a try after charging down a clearing kick in front of the goalposts.

Kayne Wahlstrom converted to edge South Canterbury in front for the first time 23-22 before he completed the scoring with his fourth penalty four minutes later to lift his personal contribution to 16 points.

South Canterbury protected their lead by keeping the ball in the forwards, who ran down the clock with a series of pick and goes.

Fullback Peter Breen had a very good match for North Otago, who were also well served by No 8 Joe Manea.
South Canterbury 26 (Maile Longi, Andrew Scarlett; Kayne Wahlstrom 4 pen, 2 con) North Otago 22 (Tane Puki, Peter Breen, Ross Hay tries; Breen pen, 2 con). Halftime: 6-22.

- NZPA