Tonga had three second half try claims ruled out by video referee Ashley Klein in a pulsating period of play that saw Scotland hold out for a thrilling victory
Brett Carter was deemed to have forced a goal line drop out before Jorge Taufua (tackled) and Ukuma Ta’ai (lost ball) had tries crossed off. Numerous other incidents were referred to the video ref including a last minute chance for Tonga after Kane Linnett had been sin binned for a professional foul.
But Tonga dominated the second period, recovering from a 16-point interval deficit to close to 18-20 with two tries from man of the match Sika Manu and one from Nafe Seluini by the 60-minute mark. Willie Manu then strode over and Sami Langi’s conversion put Tonga in front with 15 minutes remaining.
But Scotland, who held a 20-4 interval advantage, hit back with Matthew Russell reaching over with seven minutes remaining.
In the first half Ben Fisher and Russell crossed for Scotland, Glenn Fisi’iahi scoring Tonga’s only try in the first 40 minutes.
