Lions snare another victory in Premier League

Graeme Norton's Vodafone Auckland Lions came back from a 0-12 deficit to grab an impressive 26-20 victory over St George Illawarra in their New South Wales Premier League encounter on Sunday.

Back at Mt Smart Stadium after two away games, the Auckland side was less than convincing early on in conceding two tries. But a strong second quarter paved the way for the side's third win in five starts in its debut season in the competition.

Despite facing a Dragons side boasting numerous first graders - including experienced halfback Mathew Head - the Vodafone Auckland Lions were full of exuberance in fashioning a fine comeback.

Second rower Sonny Fai scored a blistering try from 40 metres out - his fourth of the season - and winger Malo Solomona also made it four tries for the year so far when he leapt expertly to claim an Isaac John bomb.

In his first game of the year, 19-year-old centre Miguel Start also scored.

The win keeps Auckland well set in the top eight going into a bye next weekend.

Match details Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland:

Vodafone Auckland Lions 26 (Sonny Fai, Malo Solomona, Lui Toimoana, Miguel Start, Isaac John tries; Steve Buckingham 4 conversions).

St George Illawarra Dragons 20 (Chris Houston, Frank Samia, Reece Blayney, Luke MacDougall tries; Mathew Head 2 conversions).

Halftime: 12-10 Dragons. Referee: Jason Robinson.