The Highlanders have held off a spirited Moana Pasifika 27-17 in their first appearance at Christchurch’s One New Zealand Stadium.<\/p>\n
Both sides opted to play enterprising rugby under the roof, producing some pulsating moments across a highly competitive 80 minutes.<\/p>\n
It took 25 minutes for the first points, the Highlanders freeing up Jonah Lowe outside to waltz over for the opener.<\/p>\n
Moana Pasifika struck back in style, a rampaging run from Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa taking them into the 22, before Willy Havili sent a towering cross over for Israel Leota to soar into the sky and score a stunner.<\/p>\n
They would then take the lead as Glen Vaihu was put one on one with Cam Millar and skinned him to give Moana Pasifika a 10-7 halftime advantage.<\/p>\n
Things were squared up shortly after the break through the boot of Millar before Angus Ta’avao rumbled over from close range.<\/p>\n
Adam Lennox, moving from halfback to wing, showcased his gas as he latched onto a Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens grubber and skinned the cover.<\/p>\n
Replacement Augustine Pulu gave Moana Pasifika a sniff after running a superb line and getting flipped into the in-goal.<\/p>\n
However, more Moana Pasifika mistakes would hand it to the Highlanders, Millar knocking over the final points right on the siren.<\/p>\n