The USA Hawks completed a clean sweep of their two-match series against South Africa with a gripping 44-32 triumph in Pretoria.

The Rhinos came out strongly trying to avenge their 38-18 loss in the first match, and crossed for the opening try within five minutes by winger Craig Pienaar.

However, the USA Hawks scored four tries in 20 minutes through standout former NRL player Daniel Vidot, a double to NFL convert Ulice Gillard and ex-Super League playmaker Peter Lupton, with Mason McCrory converting twice.

The Rhino’s got a late surge before halftime, taking advantage of the stifling heat as rookie Craig Pienaar went over twice to complete his hat trick.

Vidot powered over for USA’s fifth try, taking the score line to 24-14. The heat eased a bit and a battle broke out for supremacy in the second half.

Gillard completed his hat trick early in the second half, followed quickly by Ryan Bannerot. Both conversions were unsuccessful and the Rhino’s responded with a tries to Heinrich Rademeyer and Jean Coetzer, two of the more experienced players on the field.

After a period of sustained attack, Tevita Bryce crashed over under the posts for the Hawks and Mason McCrory converted, taking the score to 38-22.

The Rhinos showed tremendous grit and determination and were rewarded with tries to James Campbell and Dylan Venter.

However, just as the match seemed over, Bryce powered over after the horn and Mason McCrory converted, taking the final score line to 44-32 in favour of the Hawks.

The USA Hawks finished the series unbeaten and the USA coaching staff can be very happy with their performance.