After surviving a scare against the Melbourne Rebels last time out, the Chiefs need to continue to “stamp things up” in Super Rugby Pacific ahead of the qualifiers according to former All Blacks fullback Myles Molina.
With the score at 23 points, Chiefs and All Blacks first five Damian McKenzie overcame the pressure of the moment to score a 78th-minute penalty which saw the visitors edged by the Rebels 26-23 at AAMI Park.
Although the victory was not convincing, this is what the leaders were aiming for. The Hamilton-based side currently sit fourth on the ladder, but could rise to second if two results come from Round 14.
If the Brumbies beat the Rebels, it's possible the New Zealanders could finish second before the final round – but that's out of their control. The Chiefs will be laser-focused on the challenge that lies ahead when they face the Hurricanes.
Coach Clayton McMillan has named a stable starting lineup with no changes following the win over Melbourne. All Black Rugby World Cup winner Mils Muliaina said it was a “really great” appearance for Chiefs ahead of the finals.
“If you look at it…I think he rotated it a little bit and gave the guys some opportunities,” Molina said. Stan Sports “Recall”.
“When they came back (and) they ramped things up.
“They survived that scare, it was a really good game and they won. They'll be happy about that.”
“Now they understand what's out there and what's really important for Clayton McMillan and the Chiefs is to step things up in preparation for those finals.”
face to face
Last 5 meetings
Average points scored
The Chiefs may have picked a consistent lineup this week, but it's a different story for their opponents. Hurricanes coach Clark Laidlaw made 11 changes to the opposing side alone after last week's hard-fought win over Moana Pacifica.
Playmaker Jordie Barrett will lead a Hurricanes team that has talent, skill and potential across the board. Raymond Tuputupu, Justin Sangster, Devan Flanders and Kenny Naholo are the only players to retain their places in the First XV.
As the race for a spot in the top two continues to heat up, this is nothing less than a must-win game for the Hurricanes. The New Zealand capital's men sit second in the standings and won't want to give that up before the qualifiers.
“It's a great story about what both coaches can do,” added former Wallaby Morgan Torinoi in response to Molina's comments.
“The Hurricanes have been better than anyone this year at rotating their team and winning.
“They did what needed to be done against Moana.
“As you can see some of the names… (Xavier) Noumea is back, (Peter) Lakay has been great, and (TJ) Perenara of course along with (Brett) Cameron are back at 10. Jordie Barrett is the captain and then three players in defence, he's back. Two up there with (Josh) Morby and (Robin) Love who have been very effective.
“The Hurricanes, they had a week off last week. This will be a marquee performance for them.
“The Chiefs… I think no matter what happens (coach Clayton McMillan) is going to rest some guys next week. He lines up very well for the Chiefs.”
