13 Apr 2015

Highlanders bracing for Blues backlash

12:45 pm on 13 April 2015

The Highlanders showed off their playoff credentials at the weekend with a win over the Crusaders, but the side is already looking ahead to a clash with the cellar-dwelling Blues on Saturday.

Highlanders fullback Ben Smith.

Highlanders fullback Ben Smith. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

The 25-20 come from behind victory in Christchurch was testament to the mental strength of the Highlanders squad and cemented Jamie Joseph's men in the top six playoff spots.

The fifth placed southerners next face the Blues, who recorded their first win of the season by beating the Brumbies on the weekend.

The Highlanders captain Ben Smith says they are expecting the Blues to employ a similar strategy to that used by the Crusaders.

"The Blues are really similar, they'll try and take us on with their forwards, so we'll have a good look at them during the week and come up with a plan then enjoy being back at Forsyth Barr stadium for another home game," he said.

The Hurricanes still top the overall standings despite coming off a bye, with the Brumbies second and the Chiefs and Highlanders also in the top five.

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