Dunedin plays host to a vital Super Rugby derby between the Highlanders and Chiefs this afternoon. Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 5.30pm AEST.
Both the Highlanders and Chiefs remain in the hunt for the finals but a loss tonight for either side could spell the end of their ambitions.
The Highlanders are currently in fifth position on the ladder but the Chiefs are only three points behind, so expect a tight contest between two sides desperate for a win.
All Blacks trio Aaron Smith, Ben Smith and Malakai Fekitoa all return for the Highlanders after playing in the recent Test series against England.
The trio will certainly have their say in a match, and the Chiefs will particularly need to keep a eye on Ben Smith. Smith has been in terrific form at fullback and has made plenty of metres over the gainline this season.
As defending champions, the Chiefs’ chances of going back-to-back will worsen with defeat. On their day, they can be a joy to watch but their form of late doesn’t bode well.
Before the June Test window, the Chiefs suffered defeats to the Hurricanes and Waratahs. These losses now leave the Chiefs in a precarious position as the season reaches its climax.
The Highlanders at home will be tough to beat but the Chiefs will take confidence from the fact that they have won their past three matches against tonight’s rivals.
The Chiefs will give it their all but the class of Aaron and Ben Smith should be enough to guide the Highlanders home.
Highlanders by 6.
Join The Roar for live scores and coverage of the Highlanders vs Chiefs match from 5:30pm (AEST).
If you are following the match, be sure to drop your thoughts in the comments below.
warrenexpatinnz
Roar Guru
Although I'm not as direct as you snake I will say Tameifuna has put on some weight and seemingly in a very short space of time. The Chiefs have lost their 'click' and keeping as close to the Highlanders with this drop off shows how good they could be if they rediscover that mojo. All seem to unravel from Cruden's injury then the test window break.
Billy Bob
Guest
Agreed Hog. There is a lot to like about them.
TheSnake
Guest
What's needed is discipline! You can't turn up looking like a balloon and expect to give your team your best .effort. Simple really.
Marty
Guest
Another exciting and frenetic kiwi derby. Love these matches, and Saders v Canes sat arvo, awesome.
Leon
Guest
gee you sound like an angry person. Has life treated you poorly today ;-(
TheSnake
Guest
How fat is Ben Tameifuna? Stop eating all that f**ken food.
TheSnake
Guest
Umm, thanks Alan :)
TheSnake
Guest
Zzzzzzzzz! It was a snore fest! That's what it was.
RobC
Roar Guru
Thanks Alan
RobC
Roar Guru
What a ruck battle! Lineouts not so good. Scrums afforded Highlanders at least 10 points. Well done Highlanders. Almost let the Chiefs win, after dealing with restarts poorly. Except for the one that Osborne ran 70m. Also must have set the world record in charge-downs in a game. Chiefs kicks of varous types delivered quite a few points. Those blokes Mackintosh and Hohneck are as big as barns.
TheSnake
Guest
I hope the Reds & Rebels is a better game, It couldn't be any worse! Could it?
TheSnake
Guest
Comment moderated.
felix
Guest
Close thing :-) still the leader anyway ;-) I'd think . . . . . .
hog
Guest
You have to hand to the Highlanders. Would they be everyone's second team.
Speckem
Guest
He gamed them well, bent slowly, no dummy.
Alan
Roar Guru
The Highlanders came to life in the second half and raced out to a 16 point lead courtesy of some fine attacking rugby. The Chiefs didn't give up however and stormed home to within 4 four points of the Highlanders. This is a key win for the home side who are now in third position on the ladder. The Chiefs title defence now in tatters. Thanks for your company today and join me now for Roosters - Manly in the NRL! Highlanders 29 Chiefs 25
Cadfael
Roar Guru
Good game! Well deserved win to the Highlanders. Some great tries from both sides.
Highlander
Guest
At last , managed the end of the game brilliantly - well done boys
Elisha Pearce
Expert
Well done Highlanders. That was great value.
Alan
Roar Guru
80' - Highlanders with the line-out throw. Need to be accurate here. They are. Maul is formed. Seconds remain. Chiefs will fall just short here in a great contest. Highlanders now get the penalty. FULLTIME Highlanders 29 Chiefs 25