The Chiefs have kicked off their 2016 Super Rugby campaign with a last-gasp 17-12 victory over the Waratahs in Rotorua on Friday.
The scores were level at 12-12 heading into the last minute, but Lalakai Foketi made the crucial break to link up with Monty Ioane for the winning try.
Waratahs halfback Nick Phipps and league convert Reece Robinson scored for the Waratahs while former Warriors winger Glen Fisiiahi and Tawera Kerr Barlow crossed for the Chiefs.
Chiefs coach Dave Rennie was philosophical following their first hit-out of the season.
“It’s always better winning than losing, isn’t it?
“The pleasing thing was you’ve got a minute on the clock and you’ve got to find a way over the line, and the boys managed to do that,” Rennie said.
“We’re pleased with the attitude – we just want to build more pressure and handle the ball for longer.”
The Chiefs suffered a double blow just before kick-off, with captain Sam Cane and five-eighth Damian McKenzie struck down by a virus.
Instead, Charlie Ngatai took over the No.10 jersey, and pleased Rennie with his effort despite not having trained there with the Chiefs.
Former All Black Zac Guildford showed some good touches for the Waratahs in his first Super Rugby game back in New Zealand, and believes his team is on track for a good season.
“We’re still finding new combinations out, (and) the Wallabies were reintroduced today so we are still getting to know each other and getting to know how each other play,” he said.
“It felt a bit scrappy at times but I’m sure I’ll get there in the coming weeks,” Guildford said.
The Waratahs play the Highlanders in Queenstown on Friday for their final pre-season hit-out while the Chiefs take on the Blues in Pukekohe on the same day.
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