South Canterbury taste rare success in river city

5.00pm

Defending champions South Canterbury recorded their first win in Wanganui in 48 years as they beat the home side 21-16 in an NPC third division rugby match today.

The visitors scored three tries to one, with a solid forward pack paving the way for victory.

Wanganui started well but South Canterbury struck back to level 13-13 at halftime, and the winning try came from fullback Isaac Russell 15 minutes from time.

South Canterbury needed the win to stay in contention for semifinal berth.

Wanganui collected a consolation point and retain fourth place in the championship.

South Canterbury forwards who impressed were driving No 8 Bryan Matenga, flanker Brett Johnson and lock Bevan Stewart. Halfback Brett Williamson and fullback Russell were the pick of the backs.

Wanganui's top performers in what was an average performance were fullback Dwayne Kemp, centre Te Ahu Teki, lock Brendon Back and prop Mike Thompson.

Scores:

South Canterbury 21 (Isaac Russell, Daniel Iosefo, Ryan Roberts tries; Roberts 2 pen) Wanganui 16 (Dwayne Kemp try; Brendon Bartley con, 3 pen). Halftime: 13-13.

- WANGANUI CHRONICLE