Seemingly headed for a second famous victory in their maiden Super Rugby season, Moana Pasifika have instead been run down by NSW Waratahs, falling 26-20 at Auckland's Mt Smart Stadium.
Tries to prop Abraham Pole and centre Levi Aumua had the home side in a commanding position, leading 17-0 after 23 minutes, with veteran first-five Christian Lealiifano converting both and slotting a penalty.
But fresh from their upset of the powerhouse Crusaders last week, the New South Welshmen struck back before halftime, with tries to centre Izaia Perese and hooker Dave Porecki closing to 17-14 at the break.
The visitors seemed to take the lead, when winger Dylan Pietsch capped a length-of-the-field counterattack in the corner, only to lose the try, when replays found Moana Pasifika winger Timoci Tavatavanawai had stepped into touch back upfield.
Instead, Lealiifano kicked another penalty to reach 1000 Super Rugby points and extend the home lead.
With Moana Pasifika winger Tima Fainga'anuku yellow-carded for a tipping tackle, the Waratahs took full advantage, closing to within a point with a try from winger Mark Nawaqanitawase, before Pietsch put them ahead with a try that couldn't be disallowed.
Moana Pasifika had chances to snatch victory back late. Fainga'anuku crossed in the corner, but put his elbow into touch before forcing theball.
In the dying moment, they piled pressure on the tryline, before a pass from halfback Ereatara Enari was spilled under the posts and the Waratahs were able to hold them out.
"We had our chances, our opportunities and unfortunately weren't able to convert," said Moana Pasifika captain Sekope Kepu. "Disappointing, but immensely proud of the boys."
The result means the expansion franchise still only has one win over the Hurricanes to show for their inaugural campaign, but face fellow newcomers Fijian Drua next Saturday.
NSW Waratahs 26 (Perese, Porecki, Nawaqunitawase, Pietsch tries, Edmed 2 & Donaldson conversions) Moana Pasifika 20 (Pole, Aumua tries, Lealiifano 2 conversions & 2 penalties)
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