Tom Christie of Canterbury scores a try in the tackle of Joseva Tamani of Otago during the NPC and Ranfurly Shield Rugby match.

Tom Christie scores a try for Canterbury against Otago.
Photo: Photosport

Otago have wrested the Ranfurly Shield from Canterbury in an NPC thriller in Christchurch, with a 38-36 victory.

The southerners trailed Canterbury until 13 minutes from fulltime, when they took a two-point lead via a converted try.

They then held out their northern rivals in an intense final stanza, which was every bit as compelling as Canterbury’s thrilling win in extra time to repel Tasman’s challenge last weekend.

Otago becomes the fifth team to hold the trophy this season and they will defend it against North Harbour next Saturday.

See how the game unfolded here: