Hawke's Bay have opened their Mitre 10 Cup campaign with a hard-fought 24-16 win over Southland at McLean Park in Napier.
The Stags led 13-3 at halftime thanks to two penalty goals from Scott Eade, and a try to second-five Matthew Johnson, minutes before the break.
The Magpies came out firing in the second half, scoring three tries through TJ Vaega, Tiaan Falcon and Marino Mikaele Tu'u.
The game was marred by injuries to both sides as Southland lost midfielder Neria Formai, while Hawke's Bay lost Gareth Evans, Tony Lomborn and Mason Emmerson during the match.
Southland will host North Harbour in their next match, while the Magpies face the Bay of Plenty Steamers in Rotorua.
Newshub.
