Waratahs’ late tries edge Brumbies

TWO second-half tries enabled the NSW Waratahs to overcome a half-time deficit and defeat the Brumbies at the Sydney Football Stadium yesterday.

The second half belonged to the Waratahs with Lote Tuqiri and Dean Mumm both crossing the line to turn the match in the hosts’ favour.

After absorbing all the early pressure at the start of the second period, the hosts capitalised on a midfield fumble with Tuqiri gathering the loose ball before charging 50 metres to level the scores at 17-17 in the 48th minute.

It took a piece of individual brilliance by replacement Waratah lock Mumm to break the deadlock in the 63rd minute and the hosts held on to secure a third victory of the campaign.

Bulls 31 Lions 17

FLY-HALF Derick Hougaard inspired 14-man Bulls to a hard-fought win over neighbours the Lions at Loftus Versfeld last night.

Hougaard scored 21 points as the Bulls recorded their second victory in four matches to give themselves a boost before they leave for a four-week tour of Australia and New Zealand today.

* Ireland were defeated 19-10 in the Women’s Six Nations clash with Wales last night.

The hosts trailed 16-10 at the interval.