NPC Rugby: Mullan hat trick sees Northland triumph over Southland
Photo:
Blake Armstrong/ActionPress
A second half hat trick to James Mullan proved to be the difference in Northland's 22-17 win over Southland on Friday night. The replacement hooker drove over in the 44th, 62nd and 69th minutes from lineout drives close to the Stags' tryline, making the visitors pay dearly for ill discipline that allowed the hosts such good field position.
Earlier, Southland had lead 7-0 at halftime thanks to a try to former Northland wing Scott Gregory. The first period had seen a high degree of forward play and kicking, as both sides would've fancied their chances after opening week losses.
Highlanders flanker Sean Withy answered back after Mullan had scored his first try, but from then on Northland's forwards and first five Rivez Reihana asserted their dominance on the game and set Mullan up for his crucial second and third tries.
Reihana tacked on a penalty goal for insurance with a few minutes remaining, before Southland took what they could get and ended the game by booting one of their own to earn a losing bonus point.
The Taniwha made sure their new All Black Simon Parker now heads off to Argentina as a winner, and now look forward to a visit from Tasman next Saturday. Southland have another Friday night clash, against Manawatū.
Read how the game unfolded here:
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