Fiji-born Highlanders winger Timoci Tavatavanawai was unable to help his side secure a win as they fell to the Hurricanes 20-18 in Dunedin last night during the Shop and Save Super Rugby Pacific’s Kids Round.
It was a tightly contested match from the start, and Highlanders fullback Sam Gilbert had a chance to snatch victory for the hosts, however, his drop goal attempt after the full time siren was unsuccessful.
The Hurricanes dominated possession and territory in the first half, but Highlanders led 11-8 at the break.
The visitors started the second half strongly, adding 12 more points to their tally while the Highlanders managed only 7.
Highlanders captain Tavatavanawai voiced his frustration to referee Angus Mabey over a high tackle from Hurricanes centre Peter Umaga-Jensen in the build-up to the final moments, but his protest went unanswered.
In other matches today, the Crusaders will host the Force at 3.35pm today, the Chiefs will play the Blues at 6.05pm while the Reds will take on the Waratahs at 8.35pm.
Meanwhile, the Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women’s will take on the Brumbies at 3.35 this afternoon at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
