The Blues surged to second on the ladder after a 47-40 win over the Highlanders in Auckland, retaining the Gordon Hunter Memorial Trophy despite a late scare.
After building a commanding second-half lead, the Blues were forced to withstand a fierce Highlanders comeback, with two late tries putting the result in doubt before a crucial knock-on ended the visitors’ hopes.
Standout moments included a double from Anton Segner and a milestone for Beauden Barrett, who moved to second on Super Rugby’s all-time points list, as the hosts held firm to secure a vital win.
