Top-seeded Canterbury secured a home semifinal against Hawke's Bay after defeating Counties Manukau 23-15 in extra-time in Christchurch.
The match, played at Apollo Projects Stadium, saw Canterbury make almost 250 tackles in warm conditions. Canterbury captain Tom Christie praised his team's effort, saying:
It was a hell of an effort from everyone.
Christie's team will face Hawke's Bay in the semifinal. Author's summary: Canterbury wins thriller.