The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in a crucial moment right before the halftime buzzer. Highlanders’ Ethan de Groot fumbled the ball, setting the stage for Perofeta’s show-stopping decision not to end the half but to charge forward, leading to a game-changing try from Mark Telea.
Stan Sport pundit Morgan Turinui and former Highlander Joe Wheeler were left in awe of the Blues’ daring play, turning what could have been a halftime deficit into a 22-15 lead. The second half saw the Blues riding the wave of momentum, with Sotutu clinching his second try and setting the Blues on a path to victory.
Dalton Papalii, the stand-in skipper for the Blues, praised his team’s resilience and full-throttle play throughout the match. Sotutu, under the watchful eyes of the new All Blacks coach Scott Robertson, delivered a performance that screamed ‘pick me’, showcasing his skills on both ends of the field.
The Highlanders had their moments, threatening to upset the Blues with their dynamic plays, but were ultimately let down by missed opportunities and the Blues’ relentless comeback.
Despite a late surge with two tries, including a last-minute effort from Ajay Faleafaga, the Highlanders couldn’t bridge the gap, leaving the Blues to secure an exhilarating eight-point victory.
