Tasman have been upset by Counties Manukau 42-33 at Pukekohe.
Counties celebrate Toni Pulu's 2nd try against Manawatu, 2015. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
From second to last on the premiership table, the Steelers punched above their weight to inflict Tasman's second loss in two weeks, stalling the Makos in second place on the ladder.
Kieron Fonotia scored the opening try for Tasman, before his Crusaders team mate David Havili was sent to the sin bin.
Another yellow card quickly followed for Tasman when Robbie Malneek was caught not rolling out of the ruck in his 100th first class game.
With their opposition down to 13 men, Counties capitalised sending Richard Judd and Cardiff Vaega across the line for a 21-13 half time lead.
In the second half, Tasman's Marty Banks scored a trademark, brilliant individual try before Counties responded with Sikeli Nabou, Pele Cowley and Onosa'i Auva'a all dotting down.
Tasman player Marty Banks during their ITM Cup Premiership Semi Final game v Canterbury. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Billy Guyton's final try for Tasman couldn't inspire more from his team mates to avert the loss.
In Dunedin, Southland were put the sword by neighbours Otago 61-7.
When Michael Collins scored the opening try for the home side in the third minute and the Stags' Willis Halaholo responded in kind four minutes later, their was no sign of the rout that was about to unfold.
But when Southland's veteran prop Jamie MacKintosh was red carded for striking another player the flood gates opened.
Jamie Mackintosh of Southland is red carded. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Tries to Liam Coltman, James Lentjes, Teihorangi Walden and Peter Breen gave the Razor Backs a 39-7 half time advantage.
Against 14 men, Otago continued to turn the screws in the second spell with tries to Joshua Renton, Jayden Spence and Matt Faddes.
