Rugby: Auckland wreck Waikato's semifinal hopes

Auckland flanker Onosai Tololima-Auva'a is tackled during his side's 26-18 win over Waikato. Photo / Getty Images

Auckland 26
Waikato 18

Auckland spoiled Waikato's hopes of an Air NZ Cup rugby semifinal berth with a 26-18 win in a seesawing match at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton.

With the first three spots already tied up by Canterbury, Wellington and Southland, Waikato needed a four-try bonus win to knock Hawke's Bay out of the fourth spot.

Waikato needed a bonus point win to move level with Hawke's Bay and claim the last playoff spot, courtesy of beating the Bay when the two teams met earlier in the season.

Both teams tonight had lost players to the All Blacks, Waikato missing Stephen Donald, Brendon Leonard and Liam Messam while Auckland were without Jerome Kaino and John Afoa.

Ahead 13-11 at halftime, Auckland defended staunchly throughout the second half, and were rewarded with their first win over Auckland since their 47-26 victory two years ago.

Peter Saili, wearing Kaino's No 6 jersey, didn't have the most auspicious of starts, his high shot on Waikato second five-eighth Callum Bruce gifting Waikato the opening penalty of the match.

Auckland first five Ash Moeke replied with a penalty but a second Saili infringement at the ruck saw referee Bryce Lawrence reach for the yellow card.

Despite being a man down, Auckland responded with style, a beautifully timed pass from captain Benson Stanley sending second five-eighth Jamie Helleur into space for a try.

Moeke added the extras for a 10-6 lead but Waikato flanker Jack Lam, who impressed with his work at the breakdown, crossed soon after for his first try of the season to give the home team a narrow lead.

However, it was Auckland who went into halftime 13-10 up courtesy of another Moeke penalty although they lost Helleur just before the break with a nasty-looking knee injury.

Waikato were also hit with injury, fullback Sosene Anesi coming off after nine minutes and being replaced by Henry Speight, whose early handling jitters included a knock-on with an open line beckoning.

Waikato started the second half strongly, hitting the front barely two minutes after the restart when Trent Renata crossed after big No 8 Alex Bradley made the initial thrust with a bullocking run up the middle.

Auckland responded minutes later when prop Charlie Faumuina powered over at the head of a strong drive to the line, and they led 20-18.

Two further Moeke penalties extended the lead, and Auckland's defence -- led by some inspirational work from Stanley -- held firm against an increasingly desperate Waikato.

New Ranfurly Shield holders Southland will travel to second-placed Wellington for one semifinal next weekend while Canterbury will host Hawke's Bay.

Auckland 26 (Jamie Helleur, Charlie Faumuina tries; Ash Moeke 3 pen, 2 con) Waikato 18 (Jack Lam, Trent Renata tries; Callum Bruce 2 pen, con) . Halftime: 13-11.

- NZPA