Moana Pasifika have lost their Round Four match to the Chiefs 57-24 in Hamilton.
Despite the scoreline, Moana showed grit to stay in the fight and apply pressure. While the Chiefs showed why they have been a well-oiled machine in this competition for a long time.
Quinn Tupaea scored the first try of the match after some spectacular phases of attack from his team. Following back to back tries for the Chiefs in the first five minutes, Moana Pasifika’s fullback Glen Vaihu was all power and pace, answering back with a tough sequence.
He broke through the defence and vigorously fended off Chiefs players to spark some momentum for Moana.
It led to a couple of successful lineouts for Moana and Vaihu crossing the line for his team’s first try.
Moana Pasifika’s 2025 rookie of the year, Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa was explosive and scored two incredible tries, including one out of a scrum.
The Chiefs didn’t let up though and came out of the halftime break on a mission. They continued to stack tries and showed their attacking prowess.
In the second half, Moana Pasifika debutant Joel Lam came on at halfback and showed superb skill and composure. 20-year-old rising Tongan star, Tyler Pulini who was also making his debut for Moana, showed promise against some of the best talent in the world.
It wasn’t the result Moana Pasifika were looking for, but the focus now shifts to next week’s match against the Blues at Eden Park.
ENDS
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