Daynah Nankivell (L) and Kahlia Awa of the Blues celebrate victory in the Super Rugby Aupiki Final against the Chiefs Manawa at Eden Park. Photo: photosport
The Blues Women are Super Rugby Aupiki champions, after scoring three late tries to beat Chiefs Manawa 24-18 in the final.
Loose forward Liana Mikaele-Tu'u scored with two minutes remaining to put the home side ahead for the first time at Eden Park, capping a barnstorming finish after the Chiefs had dominated much of the contest.
Jaymie Kolose of the Blues is tackled by Hazel Tubic of the Chiefs Manawa during the Super Rugby Aupiki Final rugby match. Photo: David Rowland / Photosport
In wet, windy conditions and trailing by 13 points, the Blues finally found their form when things became desperate, with Kahlia Awa crossing in the 65th minute, followed by a second try to dynamic winger Katelyn Vahaakolo and Mikaele-Tu'u's match-winner.
While it was a maiden title for the top-qualifying Blues, it was a second straight narrow final defeat for the Chiefs, who were the competition's inaugural champions in 2022.
Katelyn Vahaakolo of the Blues during the Super Rugby Aupiki Final rugby match between the Blues and the Chiefs Manawa at Eden Park. Photo: David Rowland / Photosport
The Chiefs' more experienced forwards adapted to the wet weather better, helping their team to a narrow 8-5 halftime lead thanks to an early Renee Holmes try, which became 18-5 after Holmes landed a penalty and converted a Mia Anderson try.
The Blues' only first-half scoring came close to the interval through Vahaakolo, who was among the most dangerous attackers on the field.