The Chiefs powered to a commanding 42-12 win over the Highlanders to keep their Super Rugby minor premiership hopes alive, climbing level with the Hurricanes at the top of the standings while pushing the Highlanders to the brink of elimination.
After weathering an early Highlanders surge driven by a dominant scrum, the Chiefs took control through tries to Wallace Sititi, Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Samisoni Taukei’aho and Xavier Roe, piling on the pressure after Tomas Lavanini was yellow-carded.
The Highlanders struggled to break through the hosts’ defence despite periods of territory, while late tries from Brodie McAlister and Kyle Brown sealed the rout.
The match ended on a sour note for both sides, with Highlanders winger Caleb Tangitau suffering a serious-looking knee injury after the siren and Damian McKenzie knocked out late for the Chiefs, putting next week’s clash with the Crusaders in doubt.
