Lions move to second with 17-23 win over Chiefs

by Frank Nickson Saturday 20 April 2019

Chiefs 17-23 Lions, FMG Stadium Waikato
Scorecard

A second half fightback from Chiefs went in vain as Lions held on to a 17-23 win in their Super Rugby clash at FMG Stadium Waikato on Friday.

The win has taken Lions to second place in the South African Conference after securing their fifth win from nine games while Chiefs are at fourth place in New Zealand group.

The first 30 minutes was competitive but Lions managed to get a six-point lead in the back of a double penalty kick from Elton Jantjies but as the half-time was approaching the South African side stepped up the gear.

Carlu Sadie dived from close range in the 36th minute for the opening try and four minutes later a grubber kick from Warren Whiteley was collected by Aphiwe Dyantyi as he dotted down. Jantjies followed it with conversions on both the occasion as they raced to a 0-20 lead.

The Chiefs showed better intent in the second half with their first points in the game coming in the 61st minute with a try from Sean Wainui after a build up from Brad Weber.

Further tries from Nepo Laulala (64') and Tumua Manu (76') gave Chiefs hope with the difference coming down to three points but a drop goal from Jantjies in the final minute ensured a 17-23 win for the Lions.