Newcastle Falcons are running out of time to save themselves from Premiership relegation after losing at home to Leicester Tigers.
Edinburgh's Pro14 play-off hopes hang by a thread after a damaging home defeat to Ulster, who extended their own domestic season.
Billy Vunipola's support of Israel Folau has been condemned by the Rugby Football Union and Saracens.
Ben Smith marked a milestone appearance with an early try for the Highlanders, but they were soon swept away by the Crusaders.
Israel Folau is set to be sacked for his controversial social media posts, but Billy Vunipola has sympathy for the dual-code international.
Rugby Australia outlined plans to sack Israel Folau on Thursday and, alongside the NSW Rugby Union, met with the player the following day.