Waisake Naholo returned to Super Rugby with a vengeance after scoring two tries and helping set up another in the Highlanders impressive 26-13 win over the Chiefs in Hamilton.
Winger Waisake Naholo Photo: Photosport
Prop Dan Lienert-Brown also scored a try for the visitors, which had been sparked by a counter-attacking burst from Naholo, who broke his leg in round one.
First five-eighth Lima Sopoaga slotted three penalties. Marty Banks added a conversion.
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Suffocating defensive pressure from the Highlanders meant scoring opportunities were rare but the Chiefs were also guilty of a number of handling errors.
For the Chiefs, first five Aaron Cruden slotted an early penalty and grabbed a try while replacement Sam Vaka scored a consolation try in the final minute.
The southerners led 13-3 at half-time.
Referee Angus Gardner issued a yellow card to Chiefs second five Charlie Ngatai for a dangerous tackle on Elliot Dixon during the game.
Elsewhere, a first-half hat trick from Marcel Brache helped the Western Force claim an emphatic 40-22 win over a gallant Sunwolves outfit at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo.
Highlanders second five Malakai Fekitoa in action. Photo: Photosport
- Reuters/RNZ
