The Chiefs responded emphatically to last week’s Super Rugby Pacific setback with a dominant 57-24 victory over Chiefs rivals Moana Pasifika in Hamilton, continuing a one-sided rivalry that has now stretched to eight straight wins for the hosts.
A blistering first half produced seven tries, with early scores from Quinn Tupaea and Liam Coombes-Fabling setting the tone before Moana briefly responded through Glen Vaihu and Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa. Damian McKenzie played a central role in the Chiefs’ attacking surge, helping create tries for Emoni Narawa and Lalakai Foketi as the home side led 31-14 at halftime. Although Moana struck first after the break through Tupou Ta’eiloa’s second try,
Leroy Carter completed a hat-trick to put the result beyond doubt, before late scores from replacements Kyle Brown and Tyrone Thompson sealed a nine-try display. A late try from Tevita Ofa added some consolation for Moana, who remain bottom of the table after a third defeat of the season.
