The Highlanders have started the Super 15 with a bang defeating the much-fancied Blues 29-21 at Forsyth Barr Stadium tonight.
The win came from a side which made the most of any chance that came along, and the victory was set up in the first half with the home team leasing 24-0 at the break.
The team tackled bravely in the second half and held on against a disjointed and flat Blues outfit.
Nasi Manu led from the front for the home team along with halfback Aaron Smith and losoe forwards Gareth Evans and Shane Christie.
The win meant the Highlanders hold on to the Gordon Hunter Memorial Trophy.
Highlanders 29 (Aaron Smith, Malakai Fekitoa, Ben Smith, Patrick Osborne tries; Lima Sopoaga 3 con, pen) Blues 21 (Francis Saili, Angus Ta'avao, Patrick Tuipulotu tries; Chris Noakes 3 con) Halftime: 24-0
