Highlanders outplay Queensland Reds with 38-17 triumph

Highlanders 38-17 Reds, Forsyth Barr Stadium
Scorecard

Highlanders came up with a six try performance at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Friday as they outplayed Queensland Reds 38-17 in the final round of the Super Rugby 2017 season.

Waisake Naholo got Highlanders off the mark with a second minute try and six minutes later James Lentjes also crossed over while Lima Sopoaga added conversions on both the occasion to make it 14-0 in favour of the hosts.

Scrum-half Kayne Hammington further extended Highlanders' advantage with a try of his own and by the end of the 32nd minute, Highlanders had scored 21 unanswered points. Reds finally got off the mark in the 37th minute when Izack Rodda strolled past the post as they reduced the gap to 16 points at half time.

A try from Tevita Li at the start of the second half further extended Highlanders' advantage and the lead swelled to 28 points following a penalty try that came in the 47th minute.

Despite, tries from Alex Mafi and Caleb Timu, Ash Dixon's 64th minute touchdown ensured a 38-17 win for Highlanders, who maintain their fourth position in New Zealand Conference.