Sun, May 06, 2007 - Page 23 News List

Injury time score gives Brumbies hope

FAINT HOPE A bonus point earned over four minutes into injury time left ACT in with a chance of a playoff spot, while in Wellington Lote Tuqiri scored his first try in a year

AP , DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALANDAP, WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALANDAP, PERTH, AUSTRALIA

Chisholm's final try relieved a long period of anxiety for the Brumbies.

Blues 33, Force 6

The Auckland Blues ended a three-match losing streak to secure a Super 14 semi-finals berth, and eliminated the Western Force from contention with a 33-6 bonus-point win on Friday.

The Blues, provisionally second to the Canterbury Crusaders on points difference in the standings, flew to Sydney to await yesterday's results and whether they'll play their semifinal in Australia or South Africa next weekend.

After three successive defeats to South African sides, the Blues' desperation to make the playoffs for the first time in four years was evident by the willingness of the forwards to subdue the Force in driving rain at the Subiaco Oval.

After Luke McAlister kicked the Blues ahead, Isa Nacewa led a breakout from near their own 22 which was finished by winger Rudi Wulf, and ensured the Blues the lead into the interval.

Their relentless pressure eventually cracked the Force in the second half, with three tries in the last 11 minutes to forwards John Afoa, Keven Mealamu -- from a quick throw-in using the wrong ball -- and Tony Woodcock.

This story has been viewed 1657 times.
TOP top