Cam Roigard has produced a special performance to deliver the Hurricanes a crucial 24-20 win over the Highlanders.
Roigard scored twice, including the winner after the siren, as the hosts escaped with the victory in their Captain America-inspired jerseys.
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The scrumhalf darted over the line after 22 phases to sink the Highlanders, who took a 20-17 lead late in the game.
The Highlanders were desperate for victory to keep their finals hope alive, and it showed as winger James Lowe stretched out for the opening try.
The hosts were dealt a blow when flanker Brayden Iose hobbled off the field with an ankle injury.
This failed to stop their momentum, as winger Bailyn Sullivan continued his try-scoring run. He powered over the line in the corner, earning five points, but a head knock ended his night.
Lowe quickly responded with his second after lovely interchange from the outside backs saw fullback Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens set up the flyer after a brutal Tanielu Tele’a run.
A yellow card to Timoci Tavatavanawai saw the visitors reduced to after he was sent off for a high tackle, with the Hurricanes unable to capitalise after Pasilio Tosi was brought down inches before the line.
It allowed the Highlanders to go into the break with a 14-7 lead before All Black Roigard sparked the hosts.
The scrumhalf capitalised on a Fehi Fineanganofo break and darted through the line to level the scores in the 47th minute.
Roigard made another break shortly afterwards before Callum Harkin was denied a try for a knock-on.
Ruben Love capitalised on the momentum shift and kicked a penalty to put them in front for the first time in the game with 20 minutes to go.
The Highlanders levelled the scores with 12 minutes to go with a penalty from right in front to Taine Robinson.
Robinson added another one three minutes later for the lead, with the Hurricanes turning down a kickable penalty to hunt for the win.
This blew up in their face when the decision to go for the scrum nearly in disaster as the ball went into touch.
However, Ruben Love produced a special break to set up another chance instantly, and Roigard was the man to break the Highlanders' hearts, diving over for the winner.
It cements the 'Canes spot in the top six with a crucial victory, facing a tough trip to Queensland next week against the Reds.
Meanwhile, the Highlanders' hopes of playing finals are all but over after yet another defeat.
