Highlanders Win Super Rugby Title

The Highlanders have won the Super Rugby title.

They've beaten the Hurricanes 21-14 in an absolutely enthralling final in Wellington, outscoring the hosts two tries to one.

The southerners got the early lead through two Lima Sopoaga penalties, before Ma'a Nonu crossed in the left hand corner to close the gap to 6-5 nearing halftime.

But a controversial moment gave the Highlanders the upperhand at halftime when Elliot Dixon was awarded a try right on the buzzer, even though it appeared he had grounded the ball on a Hurricanes player.

The southerners then extended their lead to 13 points through a Waisake Naholo try after halftime.

Two penalties from Beauden Barrett closed the gap and gave the Hurricanes a sniff, before replacement Highlanders first-five Marty Banks kicked a drop-goal with two minutes remaining to ultimately secure the title.

It's the first time the Highlanders have won Super Rugby, while the Hurricanes have now lost two finals.

Radio Sport