Highlanders edge out Waratahs with 31-26 victory

Highlanders 31-26 Waratahs, Dunedin

The Highlanders kept their Super Rugby Pacific finals hopes alive with a tense 31-26 victory over the NSW Waratahs in Dunedin.

Despite playing significant periods with 14 men and later 13, the Highlanders built enough of a first-half lead to survive a late Waratahs fightback and secure a crucial win at Forsyth Barr Stadium.

For the Waratahs, the defeat extended their miserable run in New Zealand and left their finals hopes hanging by a thread after a third consecutive loss.

Highlanders Tear Through Early

The Highlanders made a flying start and exposed the Waratahs’ defence inside the opening minutes. Caleb Tangitau stepped brilliantly down the wing before setting up Jonah Lowe for the opening try after Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii rushed out of the line and missed his tackle.

Tangitau then produced a superb solo effort of his own, collecting the ball from the back of a ruck and beating multiple defenders to score.

The pressure continued as Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens crossed to put the Highlanders 21-0 ahead inside 20 minutes.

Waratahs Fight Back Before Halftime

The hosts were reduced to 14 men when captain Timoci Tavatavanawai was yellow-carded for a cynical infringement at the breakdown, and the Waratahs immediately took advantage.

Suaalii and Max Jorgensen combined well to create space for Andrew Kellaway to score and give the visitors a route back into the match.

However, the Highlanders responded before the break when Lowe grabbed his second try of the night, restoring control and helping the hosts into a 28-7 halftime lead. Apolosi Ranawai kick started the proceedings with a touchdown early in the second half to cut down the deficit to 16 points.

Red Card Adds Late Drama

The Waratahs dominated large periods of the second half as the Highlanders’ discipline problems continued. Jona Nareki was sent off after shoulder contact with Jack Bowen’s head, leaving the home side under intense pressure for the closing stages.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Highlanders defended strongly and kept the Waratahs scoreless for most of the second half.

The visitors missed opportunities to close the gap earlier. Sid Harvey dropped the ball with the line open, while Suaalii also had a try ruled out.

Highlanders Hold On Late

The Waratahs finally found late tries through Halaholo and Harvey to make the closing minutes tense, but the Highlanders had already done enough.

A late penalty stretched the margin before the Waratahs’ final push came too late to change the result.

The 31-26 win keeps the Highlanders alive in the finals race, while the Waratahs now face a difficult final stretch if they are to break into the top six.