Highlanders Stun Crusaders with Late Penalty in Super Rugby Pacific Upset

Dunedin, New Zealand – In a stunning upset to kick off the Super Rugby Pacific season, the Otago Highlanders defeated the defending champion Canterbury Crusaders 25-23 at Forsyth Barr Stadium on February 13, 2026. A late penalty goal from flyhalf Cameron Millar sealed the victory, continuing a narrative of close-game resilience for the Highlanders.

The win is particularly significant for Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph, whose future with the team had been subject to speculation. It also arrives after a difficult 2025 season where the team narrowly lost seven games by a mere seven points or less. This year’s opening victory suggests a potential shift in fortune for a team often considered underdogs.

Millar’s decisive kick, a 47-meter attempt with just three minutes remaining, mirrored a similar situation two years prior when he led the Highlanders to victory over the Crusaders at the same venue, scoring 27 points in that match. This latest performance underscores his composure under pressure and cements his role as a key player for the Highlanders.

The first half saw a strong defensive showing from the Highlanders, disrupting the Crusaders’ attack with crucial turnovers from Jack Taylor, Lucas Casey, and Timoci Tavatavanawai. The Highlanders capitalized on one opportunity, with Caleb Tangitau displaying pace to score after a disjointed move created space on the wing.

The Crusaders responded with a try from Noah Hotham, capitalizing on a Millar turnover. Reece’s quick hands and a swift ruck set up Hotham to score in the corner. A penalty goal by Rivez Reihana before halftime gave the Crusaders a narrow lead, 13-8.

The Highlanders came out firing in the second half, scoring two quick tries. Angus Ta’avao, with his first touch of the game as a Highlander, found space after a break by Jonah Lowe. Lowe then added his name to the scoresheet, finishing off a sweeping move that started deep within the Highlanders’ own territory.

The Crusaders attempted to regain control, with Will Jordan crossing the line after a series of substitutions made by coach Rob Penney. However, the Highlanders’ defense held firm, preventing the Crusaders from building further momentum. A subsequent penalty goal from Taha Kemara briefly put the Crusaders back in the lead, setting the stage for Millar’s dramatic late penalty.

The victory is a morale boost for the Highlanders, who faced adversity entering the season with the loss of All Black lock Fabian Holland to a season-ending injury. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, the Highlanders demonstrated their capability and resilience against a formidable opponent.

The Highlanders will next host the Chiefs, while the Crusaders will look to rebound against the Brumbies in Christchurch. The Crusaders, despite the loss, will undoubtedly analyze their performance and seek to address the areas where the Highlanders gained an advantage. The Highlanders, meanwhile, will aim to build on this momentum and establish themselves as a competitive force in the Super Rugby Pacific competition.

This result signals an intriguing start to the season, demonstrating that the gap between teams may be narrower than anticipated. The Highlanders’ ability to capitalize on opportunities and maintain composure in close contests will be crucial as they navigate a challenging schedule. The Crusaders, despite their championship pedigree, will need to refine their execution and adapt to the Highlanders’ determined play if they hope to maintain their dominance in the league.