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Chiefs Player Ratings: McKenzie Shines in Super Rugby Pacific Semi-Final Victory
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The Chiefs secured a commanding 37-17 victory over the Brumbies in their Super Rugby Pacific semi-final clash in Hamilton on saturday.Damian McKenzie‘s stellar performance led the way, earning him the highest player rating as the Chiefs booked their place in the final. The team’s strategic kicking game and dominant forward play proved too much for the Brumbies to handle.
Chiefs’ Backs Deliver Key Performances
Shaun Stevenson (15): Rating 6
Stevenson was reliable under the high ball during the first half, where kicking was a prominent feature of the Chiefs’ game plan. His strong kicking ability was also an asset before his early exit in the second half.
Emoni Narawa (14): Rating 8
Narawa provided a spark in a first half that offered limited opportunities for outside backs. He scored the opening try after picking the ball up at the base of a ruck and then repeated the feat shortly after the restart. His performance puts him in contention for All Blacks selection.
Daniel Rona (13): Rating 6
Rona defended his channel effectively, notably bringing down Len Ikitau on one occasion. however, he had limited opportunities to showcase his attacking skills.
Quinn Tupaea (12): Rating 7
Tupaea’s most significant contribution in the first half was his involvement in a scuffle, but he was fortunate to avoid a penalty. He played a crucial role in the Chiefs’ second try with a well-timed break and grew in influence as the game progressed.
Leroy Carter (11): Rating 7
Carter was critical of himself after a Brumbies try resulted from Jack Debreczeni’s touchfinder reaching the corner. However, he was otherwise excellent, displaying strength in contact, diligent chasing, and assisting Narawa’s second try. He could be a surprise selection for the All Blacks this year.
McKenzie Guides the Chiefs to Victory
Damian McKenzie (10): rating 9
McKenzie delivered another Test-like performance, relying on his kicking game in the first half. He exerted greater influence with ball in hand in the second half, causing numerous problems for the Brumbies. His outstanding cover tackle prevented tom Wright from scoring,capping off a splendid and controlled display.
cortez Ratima (9): Rating 7
Like McKenzie, Ratima’s effective kicking put pressure on the Brumbies’ back three. Despite the breakdown battle making quick ball tough, Ratima effectively controlled the match from the base.
Forwards Dominate the Breakdown
Wallace Sititi (8): Rating 6
Sititi was surprisingly quiet with ball in hand but contributed substantially with his tackling, putting in a strong defensive shift.
Luke Jacobson (c) (7): Rating 8
Jacobson made an error at one breakdown but was or else outstanding, timing his involvement effectively. He disrupted Brumbies ball and secured turnovers, making Scott Robertson’s back-row selection for the France series even more challenging.
Did You Know? Luke Jacobson has been a consistent performer for the Chiefs, showcasing his leadership and breakdown skills.
Samipeni Finau (6): Rating 7
Finau roamed the field, making his presence felt without the ill-discipline that affected his performance the previous week. After a challenging season, Finau is finding form at the right time.
Dominating the Set-Piece
Tupou Vaa’i (5): rating 7
Vaa’i received an early yellow card for poor tackling technique but recovered to produce a fine effort. He formed an excellent second-row partnership with Ah Kuoi, taking control of the lineout battle.
Naitoa Ah Kuoi (4): Rating 8
Ah Kuoi delivered a superb performance, putting