In a pulsating Super Rugby Pacific clash under the lights at Navigation Homes Stadium in Pukekohe, the Chiefs held off a sensational second-half comeback from Moana Pasifika to claim a 50-35 victory on Friday night.
The Chiefs were dominant in the opening 40 minutes, racing to a commanding 43-7 halftime lead. Their clinical first-half performance saw tries from Bradley Slater, Shaun Stevenson, Xavier Roe, Leroy Carter, Manaaki Selby-Rickit, and Damian McKenzie. McKenzie was in fine form with the boot, slotting six conversions and a penalty to help build what seemed an insurmountable advantage.
But the second half told a different story.
Moana Pasifika came out with renewed energy and produced a stunning fightback. William Havili sparked the surge with two tries, while Abraham Pole, Sama Malolo, and debutant Tuna Tuitama also crossed the line. Patrick Pellegrini kept the scoreboard ticking, converting all five tries to slash the Chiefs’ lead to just eight points at 43-35 with time still on the clock.
Just as momentum seemed to shift, the Chiefs responded with a crucial late try from replacement hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho in the 78th minute, securing the win and denying Moana Pasifika a dramatic upset.
The result keeps the Chiefs atop the Super Rugby Pacific standings, while Moana Pasifika walk away with heads held high after demonstrating grit, heart, and attacking flair that promises more to come this season.
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