As the Chiefs capitalized on their early dominance, hooker Luka Connor rumbled over for a textbook forwards’ try, and Kelly Brazier added a straightforward penalty goal for an 8-0 halftime advantage.
There were few clear openings before the interval, save for some sparkling runs from Ruby Tui, and the Blues were pounding at the Chiefs’ defence without making it crack.
In the second half, it began to rain, and the Manawa gained command.
THE BIG MOMENT
Two yellow cards for starting Blues props Aldora Itunu and Krystal Murray in the 41st and 42nd minute respectively.
The Chiefs were on the counter-attack after the Blues threw the ball to star Manawa winger Portia Woodman, who is the last player on the pitch you want to give possession in space, and she charged forwards with a devastating, trademark break.
The two Blues prop were caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, as the Chiefs were throwing bodies forwards.
Referee Lauren Jenner had no choice but to produce two yellows for cynical infringements.
The Blues were down to 13 players and veteran Chiefs first-five Brazier grubbered a kick into oceans of space for Tui to dot down for their second try.
The floodgates were open, although the Blues frustrated the Chiefs with a dogged determination until Hazel Tubic, Woodman and Langi Veainu scored late tries to finish the job.
MATCH RATING: 7/10
The two yellow cards in quick succession gave the Chiefs control in an exciting encounter.
However, the Blues admirably fought to the end and were better than the scoreboard suggests.
THE BIG PICTURE
The Chiefs were warm favourites and were deserved champions after improving with each win.
The Blues were good and physically dominant to defeat Matatū in their opener on Thursday, but they were found out by the Chiefs and paid the price for poor discipline.
MVP: Brazier was in superb form at first-five for the Chiefs and was a cool head against the frantic, swarming Blues. The class and skill of wings Tui and Woodman were also decisive for the Manawa’s win to claim the title.
Chiefs Manawa 35 (Luka Connor, Ruby Tui, Hazel Tubic, Portia Woodman, Langi Veainu tries; Kelly Brazier 2 pen, 2 con) Blues 0. HT: 8-0.
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