A match against the Chiefs was always going to be a tough task, with the top of the table team showing why they’re so dominant with a six-try blitz in the first forty, before holding their composure in the second half to clinch the 50-35 victory.
History was made on Friday night, it was the first Super Rugby match in Pukekohe since 2013 when the Chiefs took on the Western Force. As much as there was huge support for Moana Pasifika, the chiefs flags were flying high and the cow bells were loud.
It was an incredible atmosphere and a taste of more to come, with Moana Pasifika returning to the South Auckland venue in Round 10 against the Brumbies.
South Auckland stand up!
A crowd of 7,192 people were in attendance making for an electrifying atmosphere. The stand at Navigation Homes Stadium was full, and passionate fans cheered from the bank surrounding the field.
Moana Pasifika fullback William Havili said in a SKY interview post-match that “South Auckland is our second home” and it sure did show on Friday night.
The community brought the noise and showed why Super Rugby in the regions is a must-see event.
Forwards stand on business
Robust front-rowers’ Abraham Pole and Sama Malolo were both impactful especially in the second half. Both scored under the posts and helped to create opportunities for Moana as they forged a comeback.
The Chiefs were superior in the set-piece department to start the first forty. Despite a loss for Moana, a strong effort from their forwards later in the contest proved to be a game-changer.
Fierce loose forward Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa made 18 carries, the most out of any player in the match. He also carried for 82 metres, the second most behind Havili. The 21-year-old continues to go from strength to strength.
Tuitama’s memorable Super Rugby debut
Samoan sevens star, Tuna Tuitama had a debut to remember. The 25-year-old came off the bench and played with confidence, was vigorous on attack and showed glimpses of his athletic prowess in the open field.
His hard work was rewarded when he caught a pinpoint kick from Patrick Pellegrini to score. The young winger has had an inspiring journey to Super Rugby, starring on the local Samoan club rugby scene before representing Samoa in both 7s and 15s.
If Tuitama’s performance on Friday is anything to go by, this is just the beginning of a great career ahead.
Havili highlights
Havili is seven matches away from becoming Moana Pasifika’s first player to notch 50 matches for the club. A reliable and talented player who is a great leader in the backline.
His runaway intercept try late in the second half gave the home team a chance to win, closing the margin to 8 points. The Tongan international also record Moana’s only try in the first half with a smart play to get the ball across the line.
“It seemed like we were running uphill at some stage. Overall happy to get the win but pretty disappointed to be fair. We were in complete control in the first half and then completely lost our way in the second. We give a lot of credit to Moana who tightened their game up, were direct, physical, and we unfortunately didn’t respond.
“Disappointing but we also look forward to a well-deserved break. It’s been a tough six weeks but the boys deserve an opportunity to go away and recharge the batteries.”
“It was a game of two halves. We were slow to start, the Chiefs came out of the blocks really quick and exerted a lot of pressure on us and we weren’t able to withstand it, and get into our game.
“We’ve got to give credit to the Chiefs for putting that pressure on us, the big learning for us is how we can get into our game and implement that even when we’re under pressure.”
NEXT HOME GAME
Moana Pasifika is back at home on Saturday 5th April, facing the Waratahs at North Harbour Stadium. There are only 3 home games left at Harbour, you don’t want to miss it. Make sure you’ve got your seat locked in!
ENDS
See all news
