Canes hang on to beat Highlanders

THE Hurricanes established a strong lead and then held on to record their second win in Super Rugby Aotearoa with a 17-11 victory over the Highlanders yesterday.

The home side had built a 12-0 lead by halftime and 17-0 shortly after, but despite dominating possession were unable to pull too far away from the visitors.

Both Highlanders scrumhalf Aaron Smith and Hurricanes inside centre Ngani Laumape had early tries disallowed after referee Brendon Pickerill reviewed video footage and decided other players had created an obstruction for them to score.

The home side made good use of the blustery northerly wind to play mostly in Highlanders’ territory in the first half.

But it was not until the 28th minute that they were able to break down the visitors’ defence when captain TJ Perenara exploited a gap close to the ruck.

The try could have also been called back had Pickerill chosen to review, with Highlanders hooker Ash Dixon shown being held down after being cleared from the ruck and opening the gap for Perenara to waltz through.

Hurricanes wing Kobus van Wyk gave his team a 12-0 lead just before halftime when he tip-toed down the sideline, while flank Devan Flanders increased the advantage to 17-0 when he crossed early in the second half.

Highlanders flyhalf Mitchell Hunt managed to get his side on the board with a 51st-minute penalty before Smith crossed, this time legitimately, to drag his side back to 17-8 with about 22 minutes remaining.

Hunt added his second penalty in the final minute of the game to secure a losing bonus point.

The Hurricanes host the Blues next week, while the Highlanders face the Chiefs in Hamilton.