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 nearly 250 tackles in warm conditions.
Canterbury captain Tom Christie said, "to be fair it was a hell of an effort from everyone."
Christie expressed relief, not only because his team won, but also because they overcame the No 8 seeds, who had won five straight matches to reach the playoffs.
Author's summary: Canterbury wins a thrilling extra-time match.