Mutual respect between competing Highlanders halfbacks Aaron Smith and Folau Fakatava was central to the hopes of creating an ongoing legacy for the side in their position.
Individual brilliance through four tries scored by wing Mark Telea was enough for the Blues to beat the Hurricanes, but it wouldn't be enough to win Super Rugby Pacific playoff games.
The Brumbies have plenty of work to do if they are to make an impact in the Super Rugby Pacific finals with their chances of a top-two finish over after a 31-21 loss to the Chiefs.