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The Chiefs clash with the Hurricanes at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton to kickoff Round 18 of Super Rugby. Join The Roar for live scores from 5:35pm (AEST).
It’s the business end of the season and the Chiefs find themselves in unfamiliar territory entering this match.
They currently sit last in the New Zealand conference standings and need a strong win today to keep their dream of competing for a third straight Super Rugby title alive.
But wins have been hard to come by for the defending champions of late. They are currently on a three-match losing streak which includes a 37-point belting at the hand of their opponents today.
But facing the Chiefs at home is never an easy proposition, and with their season on the line the defending champions will be sure to tighten up and step up with just two matches left to salvage their season in the lead up to the finals.
The Hurricanes will also have the finals on their mind. They haven’t taken part in the business end of the Super Rugby season for five years, but a win today should place them well for a finals berth.
With a strong 16-9 home win against the conference leading Crusaders last round, the Hurricanes enter this match with momentum and the form to cause an upset today.
However, they will have to get the job done without Conrad Smith while he continues his stint on the sidelines recovering from a broken bone in his hand that he sustained in All Blacks colours against England last month.
But while one All Black remains on the sideline, another returns for the Hurricanes, with hooker Dane Coles making his way back into the side.
With home ground advantage, the Chiefs enter this match as unconvincing favourites. But if they can keep their defence tight, they should be able to hold off the Hurricanes and keep their season alive.
Join The Roar for live scores from 5:35pm (AEST). If you are following the action, be sure to share your thoughts in the comments below.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.