Aaron Goile05:00, May 01 2021
Michael Bradley/Getty Images
Chiefs prop Sione Mafileo believes their stunning scrum turnaround was about the pack engaging more as a unit.
New Chiefs prop Sione Mafileo has lifted the lid on the secret to the team’s stunning scrummaging transformation, saying some of the players had been trying to do too much of their own thing rather than working as a pack. In mirroring the side’s remarkable change in fortunes with now a place in next weekend’s Super Rugby Aotearoa final secure thanks to five wins on the bounce, it was the team’s last defeat where the scrum hit rock bottom.
Super Rugby Aotearoa: Desperate Blues look to Harry Plummer to bring the edge stuff.co.nz - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from stuff.co.nz Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
The Blues coaching staff has a crisis at lock heading into what shapes as a must-win game against the Crusaders on Anzac Day
The Blues coaching staff has a crisis at lock heading into what shapes as a must-win game against the Crusaders on Anzac Day 21 April 2021
Captain Patrick Tuipulotu remains sidelined with an issue affecting his neck and shoulder and won t be considered.
Fellow second-rower Josh Goodhue will also be missing following a head knock, with Tom Robinson who can also cover the position also out with the same type of injury.
That leaves Gerard Cowley-Tuioti and Sam Darry to likely start against the Crusaders.
Live coverage has concluded, please click here for the match wrap.
Highlanders 35 Blues 29
Blues: Tries - Ruru, R.Ioane, Laulala, Sotutu. Conversions - Black (3). Penalties - Black.
FULLTIME
One last chance for the Blues, but the Highlanders have turned it over! They clear into touch and seal a classic!
80 mins - TRY BLUES
Blues lineout in the corner. They ve got advantage, as Plummer kicks out towards the right wing. Heem wins it, and plays in Perofeta, but the Highlanders defend well.
We ll go back for the advantage, and the Blue go to the other wing - where Sotutu scores! This game isn t over!
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