As the defending champions fought to steal the win in the dying moments, a missed kick for touch dashed their hopes, allowing the Chiefs to secure another thrilling win in the Super Rugby Pacific 2025 season.
The Chiefs set the tone early with a spectacular try, as Shaun Stevenson’s incredible offload found Daniel Rona for the opening score.
Damian McKenzie added to the excitement with a dazzling solo effort, intercepting a loose ball and weaving through the defense to score the second try.
Mark Telea’s diving effort just before halftime brought the Blues back into the game, with the hosts holding a slim 15-12 lead.
The second half was a back-and-forth battle, with Corey Evans and Tupou Vaa’i scoring tries for the Blues and Chiefs, respectively.
Marcel Renata and Cortez Ratima added to the drama with tries of their own, before a perfectly executed crosskick from Stephen Perofeta set up Reiko Ioane for a crucial try for the Blues.
Debutant Xavi Taele had a chance to take the lead with a sideline conversion, but his kick hit the post, leaving the Blues trailing by one point.
With just sixty seconds left on the clock, the Blues had one final opportunity to snatch victory, but a missed touch by Perofeta ended their hopes of a comeback.
