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Watch: Highlanders celebrate first up win in style
By Online Editors
Fresh off their thrilling 30-27 season opening win against the Chiefs in Hamilton, the Highlanders wasted no time in celebrating their unlikely win in style.
Reduced to 14 men due to a controversial red card with 12 minutes to go while trailing by four points, the visitors managed to take back the lead thanks to a try by replacement halfback Aaron Smith and the astute goal kicking of first-five Josh Ioane inside the last 10 minutes.
Given the circumstances of their come-from-behind win over their New Zealand rivals, it's understandable that the Highlanders wanted to celebrate their impressive win in style - and that they did.
Footage has emerged on midfielder Rob Thompson's Instagram account of the team gathered in Waikato Stadium changing rooms knocking back beers as head coach Aaron Mauger leads the celebrations with guitar in hand while his players sing in unison.
Thompson played an important role in his side's victory, linking up well in the middle of the park alongside youngster Thomas Umaga-Jensen, who caught the eye with an impressive display in just his second Super Rugby appearance.
He was one of many standouts in an experimental Highlanders side, with Smith, Ioane, Shannon Frizell, Tevita Li, Pari Pari Parkinson and Tyrel Lomax all making their presence felt throughout the encounter.
The result leaves the Highlanders on top of the New Zealand conference, and they now prepare to face the Reds at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin next weekend.
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Latest Comments
The New Zealand performance in the return fixture in 2016 was filthy. A lot of Irish supporters were pretty shocked by it, viewed it as de facto cheating just to avoid another defeat.
Also shocked by the abuse to Ireland, captain, vice-captain and spectators after the full time whistle in Paris defeat, last match.
Sledging is sledging, but that happens during the game and targetting spectators should be completely out of bounds.
The Irish public used to enjoy these matches, even in defeat. Now they are necessary but unpleasant, because NZ apparently cannot accept or respect successful challengers.
Go to commentsThanks for the analysis Nick, thought provoking as usual. Couple of queries though, in the pic where you've circled Williams bind , I'm pretty sure it shows Stuart's knee on the ground, surely that's a NZ penalty? Also having had the chance to watch it again the All Black scrum seeems to improve after halftime, but before either England or the All Blacks replace their props. Not sure if that was the result of Tuipolutu coming on or some halftime tips. Either way this is only Williams second international season, so he'll be better for the experience.
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