Chiefs triumph over Brumbies in high-scoring Super Rugby Pacific clash

Chiefs 49-34 Brumbies

The Chiefs continued their impressive start to the Super Rugby Pacific 2025 season with a 49-34 victory over the Brumbies in an exhilarating encounter at FMG Stadium Waikato.

The high-scoring match featured a total of twelve tries, with both sides showcasing their attacking flair in a game that remained closely contested until the final moments.

The Brumbies made a strong start, using their powerful forward pack to gain early momentum. In the 6th minute, lock Nick Frost powered over the try line following a well-constructed rolling maul, giving the visitors an early lead.

The Chiefs responded quickly, capitalizing on turnover ball, with fly-half Josh Jacomb slicing through the Brumbies' defense to score in the 12th minute.

The game continued at a rapid pace, with both teams exchanging blows. In the 18th minute, center Anton Lienert-Brown added another try for the Chiefs, showcasing his footwork and strength to push his team ahead 15-7.

However, the Brumbies struck back when Declan Meredith exploited space in the Chiefs' backline, touching down in the 25th minute.

The Brumbies leveled the score before halftime with a try from Corey Toole, who finished off a flowing attacking move in the 35th minute. Both teams entered the break tied at 15-15, setting up an explosive second half.

The Chiefs emerged from the tunnel with renewed intent, and within minutes, Quinn Tupaea produced a moment of brilliance. In the 42nd minute, he chipped over the defense, regathered, and scored to give the Chiefs the lead again at 22-15.

Momentum continued to swing in favor of the home side. Substitute winger Gideon Wrampling made an instant impact, crossing the line twice in quick succession in the 50th and 55th minutes, extending the Chiefs' lead to 29-15.

The Brumbies, known for their resilience, refused to back down. In the 60th minute, Lachlan Lonergan crashed over from close range, keeping his side in contention.

Just five minutes later, winger Andy Muirhead finished a brilliant counterattack, bringing the visitors within striking distance at 29-29.

The turning point came immediately after the Brumbies' equalizer. Chiefs captain Tupou Vaa'i reclaimed possession from the kickoff, setting up Wrampling for his second try of the evening in the 68th minute.

A penalty conversion by Jacomb in the 72nd minute gave the Chiefs some breathing space at 39-29.

With the Brumbies desperately chasing the game, a loose pass in midfield was intercepted by Anton Lienert-Brown, who sprinted away to seal the victory with his second try in the 78th minute. The Chiefs added a late penalty, closing out the match with a 49-34 triumph.