Each day this week nzherald.co.nz looks at the progress of the New Zealand Super Rugby franchises heading into the business end of the tournament. Today: Patrick McKendry grades the Chiefs.
Other reports
Highlanders: D-
Crusaders: C+
Hurricanes: C
Blues: Tomorrow
Best Result: 23-16 v Blues, Mt Maunganui, Week 7
On the surface it doesn't look like a benchmark victory, being a mere seven-point gap at home to one of 2012's stragglers. The reality was this wasn't even close. The Chiefs, and in particular Richard Kahui, took charge of this game and asserted Northern primacy over their nearest and least dearest rivals. Their final round match-up at Eden Park should be a doozy.
Worst result: 23-31 v Reds, Hamilton, Week 9
This was a painful reverse against a team that has their measure. The Chiefs were outscored four tries to two and finished eight points back, meaning the Reds took maximum out of their trip to the Tron, the home side nothing. The Reds are one side the Chiefs will want to avoid in the post-season.
Best Player:
Tim Nanai-Williams. It's not just the charge of electricity created every time he touches the ball in space, it's the fact he has stepped into an area of potential weakness for the Chiefs with the departure of SBW and the perpetual injured status of Kahui, and has kept it a strength. He's a player who deserves a close look by the All Black selectors, rather than planted whispers about his defensive foibles. Incredible attacking ability and game sense.
