The Chiefs had injury dramas before they played the Crusaders, now they have even more but frankly, I doubt whether it will slow them down much.
Firstly, credit to the players for the way they defended on Friday night. It was an incredible effort: they just didn't break - well they did a bit physically - but not mentally. Their defence was impeccable.
It's the coaches that I feel have to take most of the praise though. Whatever that coaching group is instilling in the squad - it's working. The new boys come in and they get it quickly. The Chiefs never gave up and other than the occasion when Sam Whitelock slipped through, they held on and held up.
They also showed some glimpses with the ball that there is something more to come. Who will be fit to face the Highlanders this week is the big unknown. Kane Thompson came off early as did Mils Muliaina, while Brodie Retallick and Ben Afeaki failed concussion tests and Tevita Koloamatangi looked in bother with a knee.
That's a lot of good talent to lose but the coaches have shown themselves to be resourceful in dealing with these sorts of crises in the past, and I'd suggest they will do so again.
