The Highlanders have found a way to hold on for a 31-29 win over Moana Pasifika to start Culture Round.
The visitors built a 21-point lead heading into the break before the winless Moana Pasifika mounted a comeback.
Watch every match of SMARTECH Super Rugby Pacific live and on-demand exclusively on Stan Sport.
It led to nervous final moments for the Highlanders, holding on to go top of the table for the time being.
Meanwhile, the hosts are left to wonder what could've been after scoring more tries than the Highlanders.
The Highlanders were forced into late changes, with Nathan Hastie and Michael Manson coming into the starting side.
The new faces delivered instantly, with the winger beating three before offloading to the scrum half for the opener.
It allowed them to build a 10-0 lead before Moana Pasifika hit back.
Prop Sione Mafileo dived over for their opening points from close before some sharp hands to fullback William Havili levelled the score.
It gave the visitors momentum as they pressed the Highlanders in their first home back of the season.
However, winger Caleb Tangitau was quick to take it back for the Highlanders, snatching an intercept from 90 metres out and racing away from chasing defenders for the try.
Minutes later, a dropped bomb provided the chance to extend the margin as centre Tanielu Tele’a finished it off.
When lock Mitchell Dunshea slammed over close to the line, the Highlanders were suddenly heading into the break for a 31-10 advantage heading into the sheds.
Ardie Savea inspired the hosts with a solo effort right after the break to get them back into the contest.
Havili crossed for his second with 15 minutes to go, with Semisi Tupou Ta’elioa diving over to set up the grandstand finish.
In the end, the Highlanders’ goal-kicking proved the difference as they closed out the victory.
