Canterbury end Auckland's NPC dream

9.27pm

A 20-28 loss to Canterbury tonight saw Auckland eliminated as NPC first division rugby title contenders.

Auckland, the 2002 champions, suffered their fifth loss in eight matches and now have no chance to reach the semifinals later this month.

Auckland led 10-9 at halftime at Eden Park in Auckland and were still in the contest when first five-eighth Carlos Spencer scored a try beside the goalposts for them to trail 20-21 in the 77th minute.

Canterbury sealed their win when Scott Hamilton scored a try in the closing minute after fine lead-up work by wing Caleb Ralph and centre Casey Laulala.

- NZPA


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