Scotland created one of the biggest shocks in rugby league World Cup history by slapping down the tough guys of Tonga.
The south seas stars looked on course for a dramatic comeback triumph at Workington before Danny Brough’s Bravehearts lived up to their nickname.
Matty Russell grabbed a late try, giving ace marksman Brough the clinching conversion. The Tongans surged into attack from the first whistle and it needed sturdy defence to keep them out.
They kept up the pressure and eventually the pace and power of full-back Glen Fishi’iahi was too much for the markers as he cruised in for the opening try.
Scotland’s response was positive after Danny Brough’s superb restart. Matty Russell shrugged off three challenges to touch down close to the posts, giving Brough a simple conversion.
The captain was back in the spotlight midway through the half to slot a penalty for offside. Even better was to come from the Bravehearts as they pounced for another try.
Former Boroughmuir ace Ben Fisher sparked panic in the Tongan back ranks and he followed up to get the crucial first touch. Brough added the extras to widen the gap to 10 points.
The crowd then roared in pride and delight just before the break as hometown lad Brett Carter sneaked in for Scotland’s third score.
The volume level soared as the fans watched Brough’s wide-angled kick bounce on top of the crossbar and drop over. Tonga came out with all guns blazing at the restart and the contest was blown wide open again within two minutes.
Sika Manu scored a try and Samsoni Langi banged over the conversion to give the islanders a further spur. All the pressure was back on the Scots as Nafe Seluini galloped over for an amazing solo touchdown to slash the gap to only six.
The tide was well and truly turned when Sika Manu took advantage of defensive sloppiness to snap up his second try. Then Willie Manu went over to give Tonga the lead, Langi converting.
Scotland refused to buckle, however, and Russell skidded over seven minutes from time to complete his double. Brough added the conversion to set up a tense finale.
Scotland now face Italy on Sunday with a real chance of earning a quarter final slot.