HIGHLIGHTS: Chiefs v Highlanders

An outstanding second half performance saw the Highlanders claim a 39-23 away win over the Chiefs in round 2 of Super Rugby Aotearoa. The Chiefs opened the scoring with a penalty just a minute into the match, with the Highlanders leveling matters after ten minutes making it 3-3. The Chiefs slotted a second penalty to regain the lead, with the Highlanders picking up a yellow card midway through the first half. The Chiefs capitalized immediately on their numerical advantage with the games first try to lead 13-3. The Highlanders pulled three points back with a penalty, but a second Chiefs try saw the hosts in control up 20-6. The Highlanders picked up their second yellow card of the first half around the half hour mark, but this time, despite being down a player, ran in a much needed long range try to head into the break trailing 20-11. The Highlanders were on fire throughout the second half, with a three try blitz in just eight minutes seeing them race into a 32-20 lead heading into the final quarter. The Chiefs added a penalty with around 15 minutes to play to reduce the deficit to nine points, but the Highlanders sealed the match with their fourth second half try with ten minutes remaining. The defeat sees the Chiefs lose their 10th successive match, with the Highlanders bouncing back from their opening round round defeat to the defending champion Crusaders.