South Africa's Northern Bulls charged to the top of the Super 15 ladder after holding off an inspired Melbourne Rebels for a highly entertaining 41-35 win Friday. Both teams scored five tries apiece — four each in the first half — with two Morne Steyn penalties proving the difference. “I think it was a pretty exciting game for the fans, high intensity and good attack from both sides,” Bulls skipper Pierre Spies said. “It wasn't the best defensive effort from us but it was a good start to the tour and we're happy with the win.” In a scintillating first period, both sides showed their attacking intent from the outset. The Bulls crossed first when winger Akona Ndungane finished off a backline move to score in the corner, only for the Rebels to hit back almost from the kick-off when giant front rower Rodney Blake barged over. Hurricanes beat Blues In New Zealand, All Blacks center Conrad Smith scored one try and created another as the Wellington Hurricanes beat the Auckland Blues 35-19. Smith has haunted the Blues this season, scoring two tries including a last-second match-winner when the Hurricanes won their first meeting 26-25 in round five. He was again the decisive individual, scoring the first of the Hurricanes' three tries in the 10th minute and providing the final pass for the third try to winger Julian Savea.
