The Crusaders have beaten the Highlanders 24-8 in their Super Rugby clash in Christchurch.
The victory moved the Crusaders to 26 points to keep in touch with a group of five other teams contesting three playoffs positions.
It was the eighth successive loss for the Highlanders, who are the only team not to have won a game this season.
The Crusaders dominated territory and possession despite having All Blacks prop Owen Franks sinbinned for fighting early in the game, destroying the Highlanders scrum and stealing lineout ball seemingly at will.
The visitors' defence, however, was outstanding and restricted the Crusaders to three penalties from flyhalf Tyler Bleyendaal in the first half before centre Robbie Fruean crashed over in the final minute before the break.
Tom Taylor scored the other try for the Crusaders, while Jason Emery touched down for the Highlanders.
Meanwhile the Highlanders loosie Jarrod Hoeata has been cited following a swinging arm in a tackle during the game.
