Crusaders edge Highlanders 15–12 in thrilling Southern Derby

In a fiercely contested Round 15 Super Rugby Pacific clash, the Crusaders edged past the Highlanders 15–12 at Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch.

The match, played in wet and tense conditions, was highlighted by Sevu Reece’s historic try that etched his name in the record books as Super Rugby’s all-time leading try-scorer.

The Crusaders began with energy and urgency, asserting early dominance through a Rivez Reihana penalty in the 6th minute.

Just eight minutes later, the crowd erupted when Sevu Reece touched down in the corner, scoring his 73rd Super Rugby try and surpassing the previous all-time record.

That moment of brilliance gave the Crusaders a 10–0 lead and put the Highlanders under immediate scoreboard pressure. The visitors struggled to gain territory and maintain possession until the closing stages of the half.

Jona Nareki finally broke through for the Highlanders in the 38th minute, slicing through defenders to score out wide. The missed conversion kept the halftime score at 10–5 in favour of the hosts.

The Highlanders came out strongly after the break, and their pressure soon paid off. In the 50th minute, Tanielu Tele’a powered his way through the midfield to score a try under the posts.

The successful conversion levelled the game at 10–10, setting up a thrilling final half-hour.

The Crusaders, known for their composure in big moments, slowly regained control. After a string of phases and forward dominance, Tamaiti Williams barged over from close range in the 71st minute, restoring a five-point cushion at 15–10.

With the clock ticking down, the Highlanders refused to go away. A penalty in the 75th minute brought them within three points at 15–12.

Then, in the dying minutes, they earned a long-range penalty and had the chance to tie the match. But the kick sailed wide, and the Crusaders breathed a collective sigh of relief.

Their defence held firm in the final exchanges, securing a gritty and vital win in front of their home supporters.

The narrow victory lifts the Crusaders to the summit of the Super Rugby Pacific table, reaffirming their status as title contenders with one round remaining. Sevu Reece’s record-breaking try adds historical weight to the win, but it was the team’s grit and discipline that saw them through.