Chiefs Manawa Crush Hurricanes Poua for First Super Rugby Aupiki Win

Chiefs Manawa finally got on the board in the Super Rugby Aupiki season, delivering a resounding 46-7 victory over Hurricanes Poua in Hamilton.

The home side dominated from start to finish, racing to a 24-0 halftime lead before adding three more tries in the second half. Ruby Tui opened the scoring after a well-executed move from Renee Holmes and Kelly Brazier, setting the tone for the match.

Azalleyah Maaka quickly followed, breaking through the defensive line off a slick short pass from Brazier. First-half tries from Jade Coates and Luka Connor further extended Manawa’s advantage, while a yellow card to Olioli Mua compounded the struggles for the visitors.

Manawa continued their relentless attack in the second half. Tui and Holmes connected again for another score before Vici-Rose Green added the sixth try of the match. Hazel Tubic then delivered a pinpoint cross-field kick, allowing Tui to complete her brace, while Tenika Willison sealed the emphatic victory in the 70th minute.

Hurricanes Poua managed a late consolation try through Cassie Siataga, ensuring they didn’t leave Hamilton empty-handed. However, it was a statement win for Chiefs Manawa, who will look to build on this performance as the season progresses.

SportsLigue