TheSportsCampus

It was heartbreak in the final 25 minutes of their match against the Force as the MTN Lions lost their last Vodacom Super Rugby tour game to Australasia by 17-11 in Perth on Saturday afternoon.

With less than half an hour left on the clock, the MTN Lions were still leading by 8-3 – which was also the half-time score – following a fourth minute try by Michael Killian and a penalty goal by Elton Jantjies. However, as the game progressed the Force hit their stride and in the final 40 minutes took control as the MTN Lions lost a bit of steam following four tough weeks on the road.

First, Force skipper David Pocock bullocked his way over for the first of his side's two tries in the 58th minute. The try was converted and when MTN Lions flanker Derick Minnie was sent to the sin bin, the Western Australians used their numerical advantage as the imposing Napolioni Nalaga scored next to the posts.

Utility back Ruan Combrinck got the visitors a losing bonus point when he slotted a tricky penalty goal in injury time, with the result already beyond any doubt.

Scorers:

Force – Tries: David Pocock, Napolioni Nalaga. Conversions: Ben Seymour (2). Penalty goal: Seymour.

MTN Lions – Try: Michael Killian. Penalty goals: Elton Jantjies, Ruan Combrinck.