Blues vs Chiefs
The Blues hosted the Chiefs in Auckland, with the home side looking to regain form after two consecutive losses to the Crusaders and Hurricanes. The Chiefs are still looking for their first win of the tournament- could this finally happen this weekend?
After a clever start by the away side, the Blues managed to regain possession and had a scrum in the Chiefs’ half. Some great passes by Beauden Barrett and Rieko Ioane saw fullback Matt Duffie glide through the defensive line and score next to the posts in the 6th minute. Converted by Barrett- 7-0.
Shortly after, some great defence by the Blues saw them drive up the field and following some strong phase play, captain Patrick Tuipulotu barged his way over the line. 14-0.
However, the away side responded well as Lachlan Boshier crashed over the line from short range in a similar fashion to Tuipulotu- 14-7.
There were several missed opportunities from both sides and at half time the score was still 14-7.
The away side came hurtling out of the blocks after the break though, with Solomon Alaimalo scoring in the corner- 14-14. Shortly after, Damian McKenzie scored a penalty to put his side in the lead, 14-17.
The Blues then replied with a darting try from lively 9 Finlay Christie. Barrett converted again- 21-17.
An exhilarating final piece of play by the Chiefs nearly saw them score the winner, but replacement Blues lock Josh Goodhue got the crucial turnover to seal the game for his side. FT- Blues 21- 17 Chiefs
The Blues lacked some of their fire from the earlier games in the tournament, conceding too many penalties but somehow managed to clinch the win in the final minutes. The Chiefs showed moments of real quality but still seem to lack the ability to win games.
