The wheels have turned so much this season that there was little financial support for the Blues improving their disastrous season record.
Their mix of senior players and inexperienced squad members delivered more spirit but an eventual lack of match management and skill.
"I was more surprised by, I guess, our lack of efficiency particularly in the first half, to stamp our own mark on the game," Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph said.
"However, you can't be too grumpy coming up to Auckland and beating the Blues side - I am very proud of the team."
Home and away wins for the Highlanders against the cityslickers was the sort of result they will remember for some time. They were not as efficient as they have been and still rolled one of the nation's alleged rugby strongholds.
Pat Lam enjoyed the energy his revamped side brought to their work but lamented damaging moments like the overthrown defensive lineout which went straight into Adam Thomson's grateful clasp.
"It was a killer, a killer," Lam said, though if his memory was sharp, it was just the latest in a lengthy list of franchise mishaps this season.
"It was tough to watch and a massive turning point in the game obviously," he added.
All Black camp attendees Ali Williams, Ma'a Nonu and Piri Weepu came on at various stages in the second half, with Nonu making the most impression.
Lam acknowledged their impact and was unrepentant about delaying their introduction until mid-game "but at the end of the day we forked up too many points again".
They had a big week with their Super 15 then All Black duties and Lam felt he got the balance right with their selections.
The forwards were committed and newer players like Steven Luatua showed some future promise in his revised flanker duties. He would likely continue in that role with Auckland in the ITM Cup.
Midfield back Francis Saili made a strong showing and then Nonu produced "his best performance for the Blues" when he came on.
The Blues will need a new first five-eighths for Saturday's next match with the Chiefs because Gareth Anscombe damaged his ankle. He tried to stay on but eventually had to leave late, with Daniel Braid shifting out from the pack to deputise on the wing.
Who replaces Anscombe? Probably Michael Hobbs, who moved between centre and second five in this game but has started three games as pivot. Or it may even be Weepu, who is trying to run into form and fitness in his bid to stay in the All Blacks squad.
Not feasible? Remember the ongoing catalogue of unusual events, ideas and decisions which have surrounded this franchise all season.
