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 match was a challenging one, with Canterbury making almost 250 tackles in warm conditions.
Canterbury captain Tom Christie says "to be fair it was a hell of an effort from everyone", highlighting the team's relief and accomplishment.
Canterbury's victory was a narrow one, with the team escaping over the No 8 seeds, who had won five straight matches to reach the playoffs.
Author's summary: Canterbury wins in extra time.