Loki Crichton breaks away from Joe Rokocoko during the Chiefs round three win against the Blues in Hamilton tonight. Picture / Fotopress
The Chiefs outclassed an injury-plagued Blues side to beat the troubled former Super 12 champions 18-9 in Hamilton tonight.
After two losses from two in the opening rounds, the Chiefs had a point to prove and came out firing from the outset.
The Blues repeated their opening performance from last
week's game against the Reds, maintaining most of the possession and territory in the first half but not able to transfer it into points.
And the Chiefs, in front of their home crowd, certainly didn't make life any easier for them.
Strong defence from the home side held the Blues from getting anywhere near the tryline.
When the Chiefs finally got their hands on the ball and made it inside the Blues' half, they created a points opportunity with David Hill kicking a penalty to get the Chiefs on the scoreboard.
The Blues continued to pile on the pressure on attack but failed to follow through at crucial points, conceding four penalties in a row.
Quick hands along the backline resulted in Loki Crichton touching down for a try in the lefthand corner.
Minutes later, Sosene Anesi intercepted a quick throw-in from Mils Muiliana and the Chiefs scored again.
Injuries to Blues props John Afoa and later on, Taufa'ao Felisi, meant the game took a complete turn, with Keven Mealamu subsituted on and the scrum being depowered.
A successful penalty attempt by Luke McAlister before halftime had the scoreboard at 15-3 in the Chiefs' favour.
The Blues were outdone at ruck and maul time, not committing enough players to the breakdown.
A spectacular burst by McAlister was shortlived when he received no support and the Chiefs once again demonstrated their tactical superiority over the Blues, punting the ball back downfield.
Another penalty from Hall and two from McAlister wrapped up the game 18-9 to the Chiefs, who by posting their first win of the 2005 Super 12 season handed the Blues their first loss.
* Fulltime scoreboard
Chiefs 18 (Loki Crichton, Soseni Anesi tries; David Hill 2 pen, 1 con)
Blues 9 (Luke McAlister 3 pen).
Halftime: 15-3.
