Aso tries give Hurricanes flattering win over Sunwolves

WELLINGTON: Wellington Hurricanes inside centre Vince Aso crossed for four tries but only had two count as the side beat Japan’s Sunwolves 4315 last night to move to the top of the Super Rugby standings.

Aso, who crossed in the 74th and 79th minutes, had two earlier tries ruled out by television match official Ben Skeen.

The first was chalked off for a marginal forward pass from Julian Savea and the second for a dangerous clearout by Ardie Savea some 70m downfield.

Julian Savea, Finlay Christie, Reed Prinsep, Jordie Barrett and Brad Shields also scored for the home side, which moved to 32 points in the standings, two ahead of the Lions and three in front of the Crusaders.

The Hurricanes, who had won their previous six games, put the result beyond doubt only in the final six minutes with three tries — two of them scored by Aso.

The Sunwolves, who upset the Hurricanes’ flow, also dominated possession and territory but were unable to capitalise on their numerous opportunities.

They also caused havoc with the Hurricanes’ lineout but were constantly destroyed in the scrum, which accounted for two of the home side’s tries. — AAP

Hurricanes 43 (Vince Aso 2, Jordie Barrett, Finlay Christie, Reed Prinsep, Julian Savea, Brad Shields tries, Beauden Barrett 3, J Barrett conversions) beat Sunwolves 15 (Kenki Fukuoka, Lappies Labuschagne tries, Hayden Parker conversion, penalty) at Westpac Stadium. Referee: Jamie Nutbrown.