Crusaders first five Colin Slade looks to get a pass away during the match against the Highlanders at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin. Photo by Getty
The Highlanders left their run too late and went down 26-20 to the Crusaders at Forsyth Barr Stadium tonight.
The Crusaders led 20-7 at the break and had the lion's share of the ball all game, and made the most of it.
The home team, in front of a crowd of just over 17,000, did not quite click all game, which was understandable given it was its first game of the season.
Best for the Highlanders were winger Waisake Naholo, No 8 Nasi Manu and lock Tom Franklin.
Colin Slade played well in his return to Dunedin for the Crusaders, while No 8 Luke Whitelock toiled away.
Crusaders 26 (Scott Barrett, Johnny McNicholl tries, Colin Slade 2 con, 4 pen), Highlanders 17 (Aaron Smith, Malakai Fekitoa tries; Lima Sopoaga 2 con, 2 pen)
