Highlanders winger James Paterson believes the Blues pose as much if not more of a threat than the Crusaders in the Super Rugby showdown at Carisbrook on Friday night.

The Blues, who lead the New Zealand conference by four points from the Crusaders, play the third-placed Highlanders in a match crucial to the aspirations of both.

Paterson, 24, who scored two tries in the Highlanders' upset 26-18 win over the Crusaders in Nelson last weekend, is in no doubt they will need to produce something special to beat the Auckland-based franchise.

"We almost see the Blues as more of a challenge than last week in some ways," he said.

"They've got attacking threats all over the field. It's one of those games where we've got to break down what we need to do against them and go into it completely focused.

"They're a dangerous side, very dangerous."

Paterson will mark either Rene Ranger or Joe Rokocoko and has respect for both opponents.

"They're both All Blacks and quality players," he said.

"Ranger is quite a power runner so you've always got to watch him on defence."

After failing to score a try in 11 matches for the Highlanders last year, Paterson was delighted with his double against the Crusaders.

"A game like that does a lot for your confidence," he said. "The lack of tries is one of those things. I've been injured quite a bit this past year (he broke a leg playing for Southland against Taranaki) and it's taken a bit of time to get my speed and power back and to get some opportunities."

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