Blues and Chiefs Tied at Halftime in Super Rugby Pacific Opener
In the highly anticipated Super Rugby Pacific opener, the Blues and Chiefs entered halftime tied, showcasing skill and determination from both teams at Eden Park.
Blues’ Starting Line-Up
The Blues made several key decisions prior to the match, welcoming back star players Ofa Tu’ungafasi and Stephen Perofeta. Both were returning from injuries; Tu’ungafasi from neck surgery and Perofeta from calf issues.
Additionally, Torian Barnes earned a surprising spot in the starting squad, making his debut as a blindside flanker. He will join captain Dalton Papali’i and Hoskins Sotutu in the forward pack.
Blues Team Composition
- Forwards: Joshua Fusitu’a, Bradley Slater, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Sam Darry, Josh Beehre, Torian Barnes, Dalton Papali’i (c), Hoskins Sotutu
- Backs: Finlay Christie, Stephen Perofeta, Caleb Clarke, Pita Ahki, AJ Lam, Cole Forbes, Zarn Sullivan
- Bench: James Mullan, Mason Tupaea, Marcel Renata, Laghlan McWhannell, Anton Segner, Sam Nock, Xavi Taele, Codemeru Vai
Notable absences for the Blues include regular captain Patrick Tuipulotu and key players like Cameron Christie and Corey Evans due to various injuries.
Chiefs’ New Look
The Chiefs, under new head coach Jono Gibbes, also introduced several debutants. Notably, Kyren Taumoefolau stepped up as a starter after joining the team from Moana Pasifika.
Alongside Taumoefolau, Kyle Brown, Benet Kumeroa, and Tepaea Cook-Savage are poised to make their Super Rugby Pacific debuts from the bench.
Chiefs Team Composition
- Forwards: Jared Proffit, Samisoni Taukei’aho, George Dyer, Josh Lord, Tupou Vaa’i (vc), Kaylum Bosher, Jahrome Brown, Luke Jacobson (c)
- Backs: Xavier Roe, Josh Jacomb, Liam Coombes-Fabling, Quinn Tupaea (vc), Daniel Rona, Kyren Taumoefolau, Etene Nanai-Seturo
- Bench: Tyrone Thompson, Benet Kumeroa, Reuben O’Neill, Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Samipeni Finau, Cortez Ratima, Tepaea Cook-Savage, Kyle Brown
The Chiefs were without several key players due to injuries, including Brodie McAlister and Lalakai Foketi.
Match Overview
The match witnessed an even contest, with both teams displaying potent attacking strategies. They reached halftime locked in a tie, setting the stage for an exciting second half.
With significant players returning to the field and emerging talent making debuts, this Super Rugby Pacific opener promised thrilling action for fans.
