The Chiefs powered into a fourth consecutive Super Rugby final with a dominant 49-12 semifinal victory over the Crusaders, effectively deciding the contest with a devastating first-half display.
The home side crossed for seven tries before the break to build a commanding 42-5 lead, with Damian McKenzie orchestrating the attack and Kyren Taumoefolau scoring twice. Lalakai Foketi, Isaac Hutchinson, Samesoni Taukei’aho, Leroy Carter and Tupou Va’ii also crossed as the Crusaders struggled to contain the Chiefs’ pace and precision.
The second half was far less fluent, with each side scoring one try, but the result was never in doubt as the Chiefs completed one of their most emphatic playoff wins and earned another chance to claim the Super Rugby title after three straight grand final defeats.
