The Super Rugby quarter-finals have been set after a dramatic final morning that saw the Highlanders sneak into the final spot after other results went their way.
Still needing things to fall in their favour after they secured a bonus point win over the Waratahs on Friday night, the Highlandershad some good fortune, with their 36 points good enough to take eighth spot, and book a trip to play the Crusaders next weekend.
They had the Bulls to thank, who denied the Lions a bonus point, leaving the Lions - who finished runner-up the last three seasons - out of the playoffs.
One point would have been enough for the Lions to steal eighth spot from the Highlanders. At 31-13 down, it didn't look likely, but they dragged the deficit back to 31-27, only to flounder in the last 20 minutes and lose 48-27.
The Bulls' victory saw them move into fifth, now having to travel to play the Hurricanes in Wellington in their quarter-final clash.
The Sharks also snuck into the playoffs after some late drama. A try after the final hooter from Lukhanyo Am earned them a 12-9 win over the Stormers in an ugly encounter, vaulting the Sharks into the finals and leaving the Stormers on the outer.
A trip to play the Brumbies is the Sharks' reward, while the Chiefs will visit the Jaguares in Argentina.
