Hurley had a starring role for the Highlanders in their upset 29-21 win over the Blues at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
Hurley, 21, scored two tries in a fine individual performance.
The first try for the fullback was a real game changer as the Blues looked well in control, having scored two early tries. But Hurley put in a fantastic chip and case, followed by a burst of speed to score in the corner.
He got his second when he ran on to a nice ball from halfback Folau Fakatava in the second half and darted away to score.
Hurley started playing in Gore and went to Gore High School before moving to Otago Boys’ High School in Dunedin in year 11. From there he has been on the rise, which culminated with his impressive efforts on Saturday night.
Hurley said after the game his performance was something you dreamt of.
"Going out there in front of a pretty full crowd, the Zoo making heaps of noise, and the boys going out and putting on a performance against a star-studded Blues side ... pretty awesome, yeah," he told media.
Hurley acknowledged it had been "pretty daunting" to prepare for just his second Super Rugby start, but he had faith in himself and his team-mates.
The Highlanders will take on Moana Pasifika in Auckland on Friday night. —APL
