The Lions struggled to punch through the Hurricanes defence
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Match Pack: Rebels make history with gutsy Christchurch win

Matches: Lions 8 - 22 Hurricanes

The possession-starved Hurricanes have tackled their way to a 22-8 win over the Lions in a gruelling Super Rugby opening match in Johannesburg. Relentless defence at altitude in humid conditions reaped rewards for the Hurricanes, who scored when it counted against the error-prone Lions.

The Hurricanes lodged two tries to one on Friday, including a late score from reserve wing Matt Proctor after the final hooter. Goalkicking proved important, with first five-eighth Beauden Barrett missing the conversion of both tries but landing his four penalty shots at goal.

Lions counterpart Marnitz Boshoff had an uncharacteristically poor night, missing four of his five shots, all in the first half which the Lions totally dominated.

Playing an enterprising style, the South African side attacked with some panache but were let down by turnovers at key moments against a scrambling defence. Lions wing Ruan Combrinck crossed after 23 minutes but it was to be their only lead.

Hurricanes half-back TJ Perenara crossed after a fine outside break from fullback Jason Woodward, helping them to a flattering 11-8 half-time advantage. At that stage the hosts had enjoyed 83% of territory and forced the Hurricanes to attempt 83 tackles to 12.

Statistics levelled slightly in the second spell but the Hurricanes continued to adopt a conservative approach, content to kick for territory and let their opponents make mistakes. The Lions spurned shots at goal but the Hurricanes were more merciless, slotting two more penalties before Proctor's try from a scrum tighthead blew out the scoreline.

The Hurricanes, who have won six straight games against the Lions, face the Bulls in Pretoria next week.