Rugby: Highlanders crash to Force

Justin Turner of the Force passes the ball against the Highlanders in Queenstown. Photo / Getty Images

The Highlanders' Super 14 season slumped to a new low when they lost 41-27 to fellow-strugglers the Western Force in Queenstown today.

In a skittery match which didn't match the sunny conditions and picturesque backdrop, the Force scored six tries to lodge their second win of the season and their second on the trot after breaking their duck against the Stormers last weekend.

They hit the front through a 70th minute try to reserve halfback Justin Turner and then ran in tries to second five-eighth Ryan Cross and winger Cameron Shepherd - who both bagged doubles - to extend the scoreline.

Highlanders winger Fetu'u Vainikolo snared his side's third after the fulltime hooter in spectacular style but it was little consolation for a franchise who find themselves in a battle to fend off the wooden spoon after dropping to at least 12th when the ninth round is completed tomorrow.

The lead changed hands eight times in a match which also included three yellow cards in the first half as both sides struggled to find rhythm until the visitors' late, decisive burst.

The Force dominated territory in the first spell, helped by a dominant scrum, but led just 10-6 courtesy of a try to winger Cameron Shepherd - celebrating his return from a long-term injury in style - when the hosts were reduced to 14 men and a penalty to fullback James O'Connor.

Highlanders first five-eighth Mat Berquist landed two penalty kicks but finished the match with a disappointing return of four-from-eight in deputising as goalkicker for injured fullback Israel Dagg, who was ruled late with a groin injury.

Home captain Jimmy Cowan was sinbinned in the 20th minute for a cynical penalty and referee Marius Jonker had no hesitation repeating the dose for Highlanders prop Clint Newland and Force opposite Pekahou Cowan when the pair came to blows 5min before the break.

Highlanders prop Chris King celebrated his 50th Super rugby match with a try to put his side up soon after halftime before both teams traded tries -- to O'Connor, Highlanders No 8 Steven Setephano and Cross.

Berquist's fourth penalty put his side 22-20 up with 15 minutes to play but their defence appeared to melt in the heat as the Force finally held onto possession on attack and opened up holes at will.

The Force face the Blues in Auckland next weekend while the Highlanders will appreciate the arrival of their bye week.

- NZPA