The Chiefs have secured a place in the Super Rugby Pacific Final, cruising to a dominant 37-17 victory over the ACT Brumbies in Hamilton.
They will now face the Crusaders in Christchurch in a rematch of the 2023 final.
Damian McKenzie was instrumental, tallying 22 points through six penalty goals and two conversions, while also providing a try assist. Winger Emoni Narawa bagged a brace, punishing the Brumbies’ defensive lapses in the second half.
The Chiefs were dealt an early setback when lock Tupou Vaa’i was yellow-carded for a high tackle on Billy Pollard. The Brumbies capitalized almost immediately, with Pollard opening the scoring via a rolling maul.
However, the Chiefs quickly regained momentum. A failed HIA saw Brumbies playmaker Noah Lolesio exit the match, and soon after, Narawa levelled the scores with a clever pick-and-go around the ruck.
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McKenzie’s boot then took control, slotting two penalties to push the hosts in front. The Brumbies responded with a brilliant play from replacement Jack Debreczeni, whose deft kick allowed Corey Toole to score in the corner and bring the margin down to one.
McKenzie added two more penalties for a 19-12 halftime lead. After the break, Toole ignited hopes for the visitors with a sensational solo try, accelerating past George Dyer and fending off McKenzie to score in the corner and narrow the gap to two points.
But the Chiefs struck back decisively. Quinn Tupaea broke through the Brumbies’ line, setting up Narawa for his second try. McKenzie’s fifth and sixth penalties stretched the lead beyond two converted tries.
The final blow came in the 63rd minute when McKenzie laid on a try for fellow playmaker Josh Jacomb. Tom Wright looked set to keep the Brumbies in the fight, but McKenzie denied him with a stunning try-saving tackle.
The Chiefs saw out the remaining minutes comfortably, setting the stage for a blockbuster final showdown against the Crusaders.
