Young hooker Jack Taylor has stolen the show in the Highlanders' pre-season Super Rugby clash with the Crusaders at Weston on Friday.
The 19-year-old ran in two tries, the last of which was a brilliant 50m individual effort to earn his side a 35-33 win over the defending champions, rounding out a dream debut for the former Southland Boys' High School star.
With less than two minutes on the clock, Taylor burst onto a short pass near halfway, grubbered behind the final two defenders and regathered to complete a remarkable solo try and clinch the spoils, much to the delight of the 4,000 locals crowding the sidelines.
The match was played by two different sides in each half, with the Crusaders dominating the first 27-6, before their southern neighbours turned the tide in the second.
The Crusaders played their strongest XV in the opening half, with All Blacks midfielder Jack Goodhue marking an impressive return from a lengthy injury layoff with a try.
All Blacks prop Joe Moody also looked back to his robust best, sturdy at setpiece and making some strong carries around the ruck.
First-five Mitch Hunt helped swing the ledger in the second half, combining with the outstanding Jona Nareki - a terror on both sides of the ball - to click the Highlanders attack into gear.
Highlanders' English import Freddie Burns wasn't dressed for action but may feature in their final trail match next week.
Highlanders 35 (Gregory, Lowe, Withy, Taylor (2) tries, Millar con, Gilbert 4 con) Crusaders 33 (Patafilo, Goodhue, Lio-Willie, Kellow, Chapman tries; Burke 3 con, Kemara con)
