Hurricanes return to top of New Zealand Conference with 25-13 win over Chiefs

Hurricanes 25 - 13 Chiefs, Westpac Stadium

Hurricanes came up with a clinical performance at Westpac Stadium as they went on to beat Chiefs 25-13 in their Super Rugby clash on Friday.

This is Hurricanes' sixth win from seven games as they reclaim the top position in New Zealand Conference while Chiefs are at third with 21 points.

It took Hurricanes just six minutes to score the opening try when Ben Lam, who recently signed a contract extension went past three defenders to go over the line. Fullback Jordie Barrett slotted the conversion but Damian McKenzie kicked a 10th minute penalty to reduce the arrears.

Jordie with his first penalty in the 14th minute restored the seven-point lead for the hosts but at the stroke of half-time Mckenzie kicked another three-pointer as the scoreline remained 10-6 heading into the break.

Hurricanes gathered momentum at the start of the second half when Beauden Barrett collected on a loose pass and strolled past the line in the 41st minute with Jordie improving it. The Hurricanes tightened the grip on the game when Beauden sent a crosskick that was collected by Ngani Laumape to score their third try.

Chiefs were unwilling to relent despite being 22-6 down with Lachlan Boshier - their only try scorer in the game crashed past the left-hand corner and with McKenzie kicking the extras, the gap came down to nine points but Hurricanes held their defence tight and Jordie's last minute penalty ensured a 12 point victory for the home side.

HIGHLIGHTS: The Hurricanes secure a 25-13 win over the Chiefs in the latest New Zealand derby at Westpac Stadium in Wellington.https://t.co/mHM79IPRqS#SuperRugby #HURvCHI

— Super Rugby (@SuperRugby) April 13, 2018