Lima Sopoaga inspires Southland to 25-21 win over North Harbour

The Stags man slotted six penalties and converted Willis Halaholo's first-half try as Southland came from behind twice to earn a 25-21 win over North Harbour on Auckland's North Shore.

Harbour started well with two quick tries but struggles in the scrum, and a patchy lineout - plus too many turnovers and penalties - proved costly.

They fought hard to the end and had the opportunity to snatch victory with a late try right on the hooter but could not hold on to possession and Southland survived.

North Harbour got off to a flying start with Matt McGahan and Nafi Tuitavake both going over for tries in the opening 10 minutes as the home side raced into a 12-3 lead.

But poor discipline by Harbour and some good, quick recycling by the Stags allowed the Southlanders to claw their way back into the match through the boot of Sopoaga - and by the 30-minute minute mark they were just three points behind.

Southland finished the half strongly with Scott Eade and Halaholo both getting over the line but being held up by some desperate Harbour defence.

But eventually the pressure told and Halaholo jinked his way over. Sopoaga's conversion gave the visitors a 16-12 lead at the break.

Harbour were quickly into their stride at the start of the second half, though, and retook the lead with McGahan knocking over a penalty then Robbie Robinson, playing against his old province, slotting a drop goal.

But again, a series of penalties allowed Sopoaga to kick his side in front once more.

Southland were then able to keep Harbour pinned in their own half for the remaining 10 minutes as Sopoaga plugged the corners well and the away team held on for the win.