Super Rugby Pacific · Roundup

Super Rugby Pacific — Sunday 26 April 2026

Sunday 26 April 2026

Match of the Day

Highlanders defeat Moana Pasifika 27-17

The action at Te Kaha Stadium delivered a pulsating 80 minutes, but only the Highlanders managed to navigate the drama to secure a 27-17 victory over Moana Pasifika. The game opened up as expected under the roof, but it was a fiercely contested affair that highlighted the intensity building in the south. The breakthrough came at the 25-minute mark when Jonah Lowe found space to score the first points for the Highlanders.

However, Moana immediately returned the favour, demonstrating some serious attacking prowess. Semisi Tupou Ta'eiloa powered into the 22-meter area, setting up the opportunity that Willy Havii capitalized on with a towering cross, allowing Israel Leota to slot home a spectacular try. This momentum built until Glen Vaihu managed to slip past Cam Millar to take the lead, giving Moana a 10-7 advantage heading into the break.

While the final scoreline tells a story of controlled victory for the Highlanders, the match remains a warning sign. Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph was openly wary of Moana, acknowledging they were playing with intense motivation—a hunger that can be terrifying to face.

Talking Point

The sheer contrast between the attacking rugby produced by the Hurricanes against the Brumbies, and the disciplined, but ultimately costly, defensive battle waged by the Highlanders at home.

Stats

Highlanders 27 - Moana Pasifika 17
Minutes 25: Jonah Lowe opened the scoring for the Highlanders.
Moana Pasifika halftime lead: 10-7.
Fehi Fineanganofo scored a quartet of tries (totaling 14 for 2026).
Josh Moorby bagged a brace.
Super Rugby Pacific: Highlanders vs Moana Pasifika.

Other Results & News

The Hurricanes put on a brutal display, dismantling the Brumbies 45-12. The Fijian Drua are tackling the Waikato Chiefs in Christchurch, riding the momentum of their recent away win against the ACT Brumbies.

Quote of the Day

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"We’re bloody stoked. We put a lot of work into getting an away win, and it was great that we did it," said Fijian Drua coach Glen Jackson.

Next Up

Next FixtureThe Fijian Drua face the Waikato Chiefs. Furthermore, the Highlanders have formally asked the powers-that-be to consider Dunedin as the location for the next Super Round.

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