The Highlanders took a huge stride towards their first appearance in the playoffs in 12 years with a hard-fought 29-25 win over a determined, rampant Chiefs side.
In previous years, the reigning double champions, Chiefs, would have steamrolled this Highlanders side at the finish after the southerners gave it all their best.
Not on Friday night though, as the Highlanders' All Blacks stars, Malakai Fekitoa and Ben Smith helped the Highlanders come from behind then keep their lead even despite numerous comebacks by the Chiefs.
It was the Highlanders' last home game for the regular season with trips to Sydney and Christchurch to take on the Waratahs and Crusaders respectively after this. The Highlanders could lose those games and still make the playoffs after this win though - but they probably will need to pick up a couple of bonus points, something they have been very good at doing this season.
Another win and they could very well end up top of the New Zealand conference, meaning a first ever Final at the new stadium.
Can the Highlanders win the New Zealand conference? Whatever happens, it has been one heck of a turnaround!
No comments:
Post a Comment