The Hurricanes have kept their slim Super 14 rugby semi-final chances alive with a grinding 10-point upset win over the ACT Brumbies in Canberra.
The 23-13 victory is the latest step to resurrecting a faltering campaign for a playoffs spot that would have ended on Friday night in the Australian capital if the Hurricanes hadn't won.
The visitors stayed in the game through superb defence and far too many handling errors from the Brumbies.
The Brumbies completely dominated possession and territory, while Hurricanes first five eighth Aaron Cruden missed three kickable penalties, but centre Conrad Smith's 51st minute try and flanker Victor Vito's opportunist try with six minutes remaining were enough.
Two sinbinnings to one for the Brumbies didn't affect the outcome
The Stormers kept the Chiefs winless at Waikato Stadium in the other Friday night game, the 49-15 thrashing putting the Chiefs into must-win and hope territory.
