Crusaders win over Highlanders and discipline issues
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The Crusaders have overcome three yellow cards and a tenacious Highlanders side 29-18 to win their Super Rugby Pacific South Island derby in Christchurch.
The defending champions put aside their season-opening 25-23 loss to their southern rivals last month, a big boost, after entering the match with only one win from four games.
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The Highlanders led 15-12 at halftime, after both teams scored two tries apiece, and the Crusaders temporarily lost front-rowers Codie Taylor and Finlay Brewis for yellow-card infringements in the first half.
They looked in danger of a red card, when Chay Fihaka cannoned high into the Highlanders first-five Cam Millar halfway through the second half, but it remained yellow, as officials ruled a late dip at the contact.
Millar stayed off the field, after failing a head injury assessment In between, debutant flanker Johnny Lee scored two tries to give them the edge.
While they had another try disallowed for obstruction, the Crusaders had enough defensive strength to hold onto their lead.
Newcomer Johnny Lee showed his promise with two early tries in the second half for the home side while Will Jordan was back and scoring first for the Crusaders. Front rower Fletcher Newell was the other player to score.
For the Highlanders it was the backline speedsters of Tanielu Tele'a and Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens with first half tries with their side once again looking good at times, but just missing the experience and depth across the field when needed.
Crusaders 29 (Johnny Lee 2, Will Jordan, Fletcher Newell tries; Rivez Reihana 3 con, pen) Highlanders 18 (Tanielu Tele'a, Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens tries; Cameron Millar con, 2 pen). HT: 12-15
Yellow cards: Codie Taylor (Crusaders), Finlay Brew, Chay Fihaki.