The Highlanders put up a brave effort against the Chiefs last night in Mount Maunganui going down 27-21.

Robbie “the kid” Robinson entered the game with an early drop goal contributing to the 15-10 half time lead over the Chiefs along with tries to Hayden Triggs and Fetu’u Vainikolo.

The Chiefs came out firing with an excellent 40m try by Stephen Donald however Israel Dagg’s two converted penalties couldn’t save the game and the final whistle went with our boys down by 6.

Be at Queenstown next Saturday, 2.30pm where the Highlanders take on the Western Force at Lakes Leisure Events Centre. Tickets available from http://www.ticketdirect.co.nz/ or 0800 CARISBROOK.

Chiefs 27 (S Donald 1 Try, S Lauaki 1 Try, S Taumalolo 1 Try. S Donald 3 Con, 1 Pen, M Delany 1 Pen) Highlanders 21 (H Triggs 1 Try, F Vainikolo 1 Try, I Dagg 2 Pen, 1 Con, R Robinson 1 DG)