Staff Reporter.
The Chiefs rediscovered their attacking verve to outclass the Fijian Drua 46-29 on Saturday and climb to third place on the Super Rugby Pacific standings.
Inspired by fly-half Damian McKenzie, the Chiefs scored six tries to four at home in Hamilton, pulling away in the second half after leading 24-17 at the interval.
It was a disappointing result for the Drua, who were coming off an upset of the Crusaders in Lautoka and were competitive early on, crossing twice through midfield back Iosefo Masi in the first 22 minutes.
Their intensity fell away against the Chiefs, whose sole loss in four rounds this season came last week, when they were stifled by the second-placed Reds.
Chiefs captain Luke Jacobson was pleased his game-breaking backline could deliver a reminder of what they’re capable of.
“There were probably a few stages there where we got a bit too loose with ball in hand but it’s awesome when we can get some of those plays to come off – it’s pretty nice to watch,” he said.
Flanker Kaylum Boshier crossed twice while McKenzie’s speed and awareness was at the heart of many attacking moments, complementing his 16 points with the boot.
Earlier, the Brumbies fought back from a halftime deficit to beat the Highlanders 27-21 and end an 11-year drought in Dunedin.
Corey Toole and Lachlan Lonergan scored tries in the second half for the Brumbies while fly-half Noah Lolesio landed 12 points from kicks.
Coach Stephen Larkham sensed his team and the Reds – both boasting three wins from four after the Queensland side beat the Melbourne Rebels on Friday – could mount credible campaigns this year.
“The Reds have been impressive and I think the Australian teams are starting to get on a bit of a roll,” former Wallabies great Larkham said.
“You’re four rounds in now, you’d be expecting that your combinations are starting to work. “We’re looking at the bigger picture and making sure we’re getting growth every week.”