Highlanders edge Moana Pasifika in thrilling Super Rugby Pacific clash

Moana Pasifika 29-31 Highlanders

In a captivating Super Rugby Pacific encounter at North Harbour Stadium on February 28, 2025, the Highlanders narrowly defeated Moana Pasifika 31-29.

The match showcased a tale of two halves, with the Highlanders establishing a commanding lead before a spirited Moana Pasifika mounted a formidable comeback, falling just short in the final moments.

The Highlanders wasted no time asserting their presence. In the 2nd minute, scrum-half Nathan Hastie capitalized on a sweeping backline movement, diving over for the opening try. The successful conversion provided the visitors with an early 7-0 advantage.

Moana Pasifika responded promptly. By the 10th minute, prop Sione Mafile'o powered over from close range, narrowing the margin. Shortly thereafter, fullback William Havili showcased deft footwork to cross the line, leveling the score at 10-10 after 20 minutes.

The Highlanders then seized momentum. In the 25th minute, winger Caleb Tangitau intercepted a pass deep within his territory, sprinting 90 meters to score under the posts, extending the lead to 17-10.

Minutes later, a mishandled high ball by Moana Pasifika allowed center Tanielu Tele'a to capitalize, furthering the advantage to 24-10.

As halftime approached, lock Mitchell Dunshea muscled over from close quarters, culminating a dominant first half for the Highlanders with a 31-10 lead.

Determined to overturn the deficit, Moana Pasifika commenced the second half with renewed vigor. In the 45th minute, captain Ardie Savea ignited the resurgence with a scintillating solo effort, evading multiple defenders to touch down.

Havili's successful conversion reduced the gap to 31-17.

The home side maintained pressure, and in the 65th minute, Havili secured his second try of the evening, finishing off a well-orchestrated backline play. Although the conversion attempt was unsuccessful, Moana Pasifika inched closer at 31-22.

The climax intensified when, in the 75th minute, flanker Semisi Tupou Ta'eiloa crashed over following sustained forward pressure. Havili's conversion brought Moana Pasifika within two points, setting up a thrilling finale at 31-29.

Despite relentless attacks in the dying moments, the Highlanders' defense held firm, denying Moana Pasifika a last-minute victory.

Team line up:

Moana Pasifika: 1. James Lay 2. Millennium Sanerivi 3. Sione Mafile’o 4. Tom Slade 5. Allan Craig 6. Miracle Faiilagi 7. Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa 8. Ardie Savea (c) 9. Jonathan Taumateine 10. Jackson Garden-Bachop 11. Kyren Taumoefolau 12. Danny Toala 13. Pepesana Patafilo 14. Solomon Alaimalo 15. William Havili.

Reserves: 16. Sama Malolo 17. Tito Tuipulotu 18. Chris Apoua 19. Samuel Slade 20. Ola Tauelangi 21. Melani Matavao 22. Patrick Pellegrini 23. Tevita Ofa.

Highlanders: 1. Josh Bartlett 2. Soane Mikaele Vikena 3. Sefo Kautai 4. Fabian Holland 5. Mitch Dunshea 6. Sean Withy 7. Veveni Lasaqa 8. Nikora Broughton 9. Folau Fakatava 10. Taine Robinson 11. Caleb Tangitau 12. Timoci Tavatavanawai (c) 13. Tanielu Tele’a 14. Sam Gilbert 15. Finn Hurley.

Reserves: 16. Jack Taylor 17. Ethan de Groot 18. Sefo Kautai 19. Will Stodart 20. TK Howden 21. Nathan Hastie 22. Cameron Millar 23. Jake Te Hiwi.