Sports

Chiefs thrash Highlanders in Suva

June 30, 2018 5:37 pm

It was not the night Fiji born Highlanders and All Black winger, Waisake Naholo, expected off on his 50th test for his Super Rugby club against Chiefs at the ANZ Stadium in Suva.

Naholo and the Highlanders were thumped 45-22 by a smart looking Chiefs, who started the match with a bang.

Chiefs roped in six tries to lead 42-nil at halftime.

Article continues after advertisement

Two tries from Toni Pulu and a try each from Solomon Alaimalo, Liam Messam, Karl Tu’inukuafe, Luke Jacobson plus Sean Wainui was enough for Chiefs to seal a bonus point win.

Highlanders captain Ben Smith, says the players were disappointed about not delivering on the day especially for Naholo, who was playing for the first time in front of his home crowd.

“Special night for Waisake Naholo tonight and disappointed that we could not make it a better performance for him but I just it was special when we got to come to Fiji for him to play his 50th. He is just so professional in what he does and what is he brought to the environment.”

Chiefs assistant coach Tabai Matson, says it was an impressive performance from his side, coming back from the June test and starting Super Rugby with a win.

“It was an incredible game for us. We set the confidence in the game and also after coming back from the June test matches so it was great to start so well and to get four points for sure.”

Teihorangi Walden, Aki Seiuli and Shannon Frizell scored the tries for the Highlanders in the game.

Chiefs fly-half Damian McKenzie stole the show, as he contributed 15 points from his boots.

Highlanders take on Crusaders next Friday at 7.35pm while Chiefs plays Brumbies on at 5.15pm on Saturday week.