Canterbury pip Counties Manukau in extra-time thriller
Top-seeded Canterbury needed extra-time to beat Counties Manukau 23-15 in Christchurch, booking a home semifinal against Hawke’s Bay.
The team made almost 250 tackles in warm conditions.
It was a hell of an effort from everyone, says Canterbury captain Tom Christie.
Christie was relieved, as his team escaped with victory over the No 8 seeds, who had won five straight matches to reach the playoffs.
Author's summary: Canterbury beats Counties Manukau.