Hurley’s Breakout Performance: A Star in the Making

Demonstrating his flair and speed on the counterattack, the pint-sized Southlander gave notice to opponents that when he is in the rearguard, they will need to have their tactical kicking on the mark, or else they can expect the sort of treatment he dished out to the defending champions who are sitting pointless at the bottom of the Super Rugby Pacific table.

"It was something you dream of, going out there with a pretty full crowd, the Zoo making heaps of noise and the boys going out there and putting on a performance against a fairly star-studded Blues side."

Hurley said he had been working with coach Jamie Joseph on improving his game's control and balance and not locking himself up.

Joseph said Hurley had unlimited potential.

"He's like all rugby players, he gets ahead of himself sometimes. But I'll let him go I reckon. Let him go, let him be himself, give him confidence and coach him to understand balance. He got it right tonight."

Hurley still had some personal criticism of his effort.

"I still made a few errors early doors which made me a little bit shaky but being able to get through that and putting a show on for some people, I'm pretty happy."

Knowing he would face a backline with several All Blacks, including the experienced Beauden Barrett, gave him plenty to consider in his preparation.

"It was pretty daunting when looking at their team list earlier in the week. But you've just got to put it aside and back yourself, and your team mates, that they're going to do their job while you do yours and everything else takes care of itself."

Hurley's first try, fielding a Barrett kick, deciding to chip and chase, and receiving a favourable bounce, was a boost for the Highlanders, who had been 0-14 down during the first half.

"You get a bit of luck every now and then, but you make that as well.

"I looked up and there was no one in that position. There was a couple of people back deep and there was three up and no one in behind. I thought, 'I'll put a wee one over here' and then just had to make sure I didn't get checked because half the time you put one over they get levelled."

Hurley said he wasn't any faster than last year but felt he might be more explosive off the mark. 

That was evident in his second try. When supporting the ball carrier, he was perfectly placed to use that speed in a direct run to the line that left no chance for the Blues' defence.