 In contrast to their previous season , in 2004 the Highlanders conceded 44 tries , twelve more than in 2003 , but scored nine more tries then in 2003 . Not only did they have a new head coach , but also thirteen new players in their squad . This all contributed to them finishing the season ninth that season . The Highlanders ' 2005 season started with a loss to the Blues at Carisbrook . Following this the side won six games consecutively , the first time the franchise had ever done so . After a draw with the Stormers and a bye , the Highlanders had gone unbeaten for eight weeks . Three weeks from the end of the round robin they were third , but after losing their remaining three matches fell to eighth for the season . 
