Chiefs move to top of the table with 27-22 win over Highlanders

Chiefs 27-22 Highlanders, FMG Stadium Waikato
Scorecard

Sean Wainui scored the decisive try with 13 minutes to go as Chiefs pulled out a 27-22 win over Highlanders in their Super Rugby encounter at FMG Stadium Waikato on Friday.

The win has taken Chiefs to the top of New Zealand Conference while Highlanders are positioned fourth.

Damian McKenzie kicked back to back penalties in the 10th and 19th minutes to start the proceedings for Chiefs but Highlanders' response came in the 22nd minute when Waisake Naholo touched down and replacement Fletcher Smith kicking the conversion.

Chiefs made a terrific comeback with Solomona Alaimalo and Nathan Harris crossing over on either side of the break and McKenzie kicking the conversions to take the scoreline to 20-7.

The momentum once again shifted towards Highlanders with winger Tevita Li (50') and replacement Sio Tomkinson (62') scoring tries. and Smith's conversion and a penalty meant the visitors had a 20-22 lead by the end of the 64th minute Wainui had other plans as he scored a vital try in the 67th minute and McKenzie's conversion helped Chiefs completed a five point victory.