Newby claims only try as Highlanders edge out Cats

The Otago Highlanders scored the only try of an intense Super 12 match as they beat the Cats of South Africa 16-12 in Johannesburg early today.

The Highlanders made only a handful of forays into the Cats' 22-metre area, but made full use of their meagre opportunities and their outstanding defence meant they were full value for the win.

The Cats played open, running rugby, spreading the ball wide at every opportunity, in their hunt for tries, but could not breach the Highlanders' defence.

The visitors opened the scoring with a penalty by fullback Ben Blair in the 13th minute when they entered Cats territory for the first time.

Five minutes later, Cats first five-eighths Andre Pretorius levelled with a penalty after the Highlanders could not secure possession at a scrum and then a lineout.

Pretorius edged the Cats into a 6-3 lead with another penalty in the 27th minute after a bullocking run by hooker Schalk Brits, who had a top-class game in a losing cause.

The Pretorius boot fired the Cats into a 9-3 lead with another penalty but moments later Cats halfback Paul Delport gifted possession to the Highlanders with a poor chip.

Anton Oliver's break left the defence for dead and flanker Craig Newby surged over the line.

Blair added the conversion for the Highlanders to lead 10-9 at halftime and the fullback pounced on every opportunity after the break, adding two more long-range penalties as the New Zealand side survived heavy pressure from the Cats.

Pretorius also kicked a second-half penalty but the hosts' laboured attacking efforts still could not find a way through the tireless Highlanders defence.


Cats - Penalties: Andre Pretorius (4)

Highlanders - Try: Craig Newby; Conversion: Ben Blair;

Penalties: Blair (3).

- REUTERS