Highlanders to take on Crusaders at home for the first time in over two years

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Last year’s fixture was cancelled in the wake of the Christchurch terror attack and they played early on in the 2018 season.

The Highlanders won that last match on the 17th of March two years ago, 25-17.  

With over 17,000 tickets already sold for Saturday night’s clash under the roof, Highlanders hooker Liam Coltman is excited about the challenge.

“When we are in front of the home crowd, and from what I hear it’s going to be absolute stellar with fans there, it always picks up the boys seeing that sort of thing. It’s just one of those things when you are playing guys that you compete against in your own country, you want to do your best and it brings the best out of you.”

The Highlanders have recorded one win and one loss so far in Investec Super Rugby Aotearoa and they are currently third on the table. Coltman said the whole concept of the competition has been fantastic for rugby. He’s been stoked to see the amount of people turn up and watch the games.

“A lot of people are in some hard times at the moment and they’re still managing to come out and watch us play footy. For us it’s a massive honour to be able to go out there and put on a great game for them. We much appreciate the support that’s been given to us.”

Assistant coach Tony Brown confirmed the bleak news about winger Sam Gilbert, who tore his ACL early in last weekend’s match against the Blues and is out for nine months.

Brown said his side are making good progress and their first two performances of Investec Super Rugby Aotearoa have been a lot better than pre-Covid. He’s pumped about Saturday’s match-up with the Crusaders.

“They are a world class team, if not the best team in the world. But like any team, if we can play our game as well as we can and put them under a bit of pressure, good things will happen so that’s our challenge.

The Highlanders have brought back the ‘Highlanders song’ in time for this weekend’s home game. Make sure to go and check out the lyrics and practice ahead of Saturday HERE. 

The battle of the South at Forsyth Barr Stadium kicks off at 7:05pm on Saturday. Tickets are available at Ticketek starting from $24 for adults and $12.00 for kids. Get your tickets HERE.