The Crusaders won the three previous encounters this season, including two nailbiters during the regular season. But the Highlanders had the better of their old foe at Alpine Energy Stadium in Timaru yesterday.
They led 19-7 and the break and scored two further tries in the second spell to stretch their lead.
Coach Tony Brown was thrilled to balance the ledger a little.
"They have obviously had the wood on us this year in the games that we have played," Brown said.
"The last two have been heartbreakers, so for us it is great to knock them over.
"Even though it was a friendly, a win is a win and we can go into the Reds game really confident in our game."
Yesterday’s match was a chance for both side to polish their skills before resuming their Super Rugby campaigns. The Highlanders host the Reds at Forsyth Barr Stadium on July 14 and coach Tony Brown has a couple of selection dilemmas ahead.
"There were some young guys who really stood up and performed really well. They have probably put their hand up for selection next week."
Lock Jackson Hemopo impressed with his huge work rate, while loose forward Gareth Evans and fullback Josh Ioane also stood out. Ioane grabbed an intercept in the second half and sprinted 90m to score.
"Hemopo was making line breaks in the 79th minute and had an outstanding game. And I thought young Josh Ioane at fullback played really well as well. He has put his hand up for selection next week."
The Highlanders appear to have come through the match unscathed other than the usual bumps and bruises, Brown said.
The Crusaders opened the scoring but the Highlanders responded with tries to wingers Tevita Li and Gavin Stark. Hooker Ash Dixon also got over before the break following a lineout drive in what was arguably a turning point in the match.
"He said it was his first try from a driving maul since he was at high school."
Both teams put out their top sides in the first half and made a lot of changes in second 40. Highlanders pivot Fletcher Smith capped off a solid game with a late try. The move swept the length of the field and he was in support to finish off. He also drilled four conversions.
Super Rugby warm-up
The scores
Highlanders 33
Tevita Li, Gavin Stark, Ash Dixon, Josh Ioane, Fletcher Smith tries; Smith 4 con
Crusaders 12
David Havili, Chris Gawler tries; Mitch Hunt con
Halftime: 19-7