The Brumbies, appearing in their fourth consecutive semifinal, once again fell short of making the final. Meanwhile, the Chiefs advanced to their third straight title decider, where they will face the Crusaders in Christchurch next Saturday.
No Australian side has ever won a final in New Zealand, and the Brumbies’ exit follows the Queensland Reds, who were knocked out by the Crusaders in the qualifying final.
Although both teams crossed for three tries each, it was the Brumbies’ high penalty count — 11 to the Chiefs’ 7 — that proved costly. All Blacks star Damien McKenzie capitalised, landing six penalty goals and two conversions, and also set up a try in a standout display.
McKenzie also produced a stunning defensive moment in the 65th minute, preventing a near-certain try by Brumbies fullback Tom Wright with a last-ditch tackle under the ball.
The Brumbies suffered an early blow when Wallabies fly-half Noah Lolesio left the field just 10 minutes in after a head knock during a tackle. His replacement, Jack Debreczeni, stepped up well, but the absence of Lolesio — who is heading to Japan — was clearly felt.
Trailing only 19-12 at the break, the Brumbies remained competitive, with Billy Pollard powering over for a try and Corey Toole scoring the first of his two tries from a pinpoint cross-field kick by Debreczeni.
The Chiefs’ early points came from Emoni Narawa, who caught the defence off guard with a quick pick-and-go. But with penalties mounting against them, the Brumbies conceded a key three points after a scrum infraction on the half-time siren, which McKenzie slotted with ease.
Toole struck again early in the second half, brushing off McKenzie for a brilliant solo try that brought the Brumbies within two points. However, Narawa immediately replied with his second try.
From there, the Brumbies couldn’t add any further points. Two more McKenzie penalties and a late Josh Jacomb try sealed a commanding victory for the Chiefs.
