If there is one theme that seems to be emerging from the first round of Super Rugby Pacific, it is teams exorcising demons from 2024.
Hot on the heels of the Crusaders’ defeat of the Hurricanes and the Waratahs’ defeat of the Highlanders, the Chiefs got revenge for their final loss against the Blues at Eden Park, defeating the defending champions off the back of a fantastic second-half performance.
Driven by a strong performance from Damian McKenzie and a galvanised bench, the 25-14 scoreline capped off a physically bruising encounter, with the visitors shutting down play effectively and defeating the Blues at their own game – through the physical contest.
The opening half saw a dogged, physical clash, with the Blues scoring two tries, while McKenzie kept the visitors in touch with two penalty goals for a 14-6 lead to the hosts at halftime.
However, the Chiefs bench, led by several All Blacks including Cortez Ratima and Samipeni Finau, significantly upped the tempo for the visitors, and the Blues finally cracked, with McKenzie picking up a double and new sevens convert Leroy Carter also picking up a try for his efforts.
Dalton Papali’i was the pick of the players for the hosts, making high-impact tackles and enjoying a strong shift, troubling the ruck on several occasions throughout both halves.
All up though, the Blues would be disappointed with the performance, with the match slipping away and the Chiefs controlling the momentum for most of the second half.
They face the Hurricaners in Wellington next week, while the Chiefs head home to host the Brumbies.
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