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Lima Sopoaga was the last-gasp hero for the Highlanders as they snatched a 29-28 victory over the Bulls in Super Rugby despite being on the back foot for much of the game.
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The Bulls, seeking a fourth successive victory, dominated possession and territory at Loftus Versfeld and looked to have done enough to extend their winning run when Jesse Kriel crossed for a 75th-minute try that was converted by Handre Pollard.
That left the Highlanders two points behind, but Sopoaga was handed the chance to win the game with a penalty from distance after 80 minutes had been completed and the former New Zealand fly-half held his nerve to round off a superb display of place-kicking.
Prior to the late drama, Highlanders full-back Fletcher Smith had been involved in many of the key moments.
He set up the game’s first try for namesake Aaron Smith with a clever chip over the top, only to then be yellow-carded for cynically tackling Warrick Gelant off the ball to prevent a certain score, with a penalty try awarded to the Bulls as a result.
Pollard claimed an opportune interception try he also converted to make it 14-7 to the hosts, but Sopoaga landed penalties either side of the interval to keep the Highlanders in touch.
After Fletcher Smith had rounded off a stunning breakaway move involving Aaron and Ben Smith, Sopoaga’s boot ensured the visitors remained ahead even though Jason Jenkins powered over with 23 minutes remaining.
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TRY | Smith to Smith to Smith! 18-14 to the Landers!
#BULvHIG – #HighlandersANDyou #LandersArmy #YOURLanders #LandersOnTour— Highlanders (@Highlanders) April 28, 2018
Kriel appeared set to be the Bulls’ hero, but it was Sopoaga who had the final say.
