The Highlanders have fallen off pace in the New Zealand conference after a heavy 38‑12 defeat against the Sharks in Durban.
The five tries to two hiding was a brutal reality check for a side which went into the game still entertaining thoughts of winning the New Zealand conference.
Meanwhile in another match New Zealand's Super Rugby winning run over Australian sides lives on thanks to a big effort from Tana Umaga's men defeating the Waratahs 24-21.
Looking at other results from last night, the Hurricanes beat the Lions 28-19, the Stormers defeated the Bulls 29-17 while the Crusaders beat the Rebels 55-10 and the Jaguares defeated the Chiefs 23-19.
At the end of round 12, defending champions, Crusaders lead the points table with 38 points, the Hurricanes are second with 36 points, Lions are third with 31 points while the Highlanders are fourth with 28 points and the Waratahs are fifth 25 points.
[Source: stuff.co]

