Waratahs go down to Chiefs in tight battle

Australian celebrations after finally beating a Kiwi Super Rugby team have been shut down after just one week, with the Waratahs falling short 39‑27 against the Chiefs in an epic encounter in Hamilton.

The Waratahs got off to a flyer on Saturday night, leading 14‑0, and looked in great shape to back up their win over the Highlanders, which ended 40 straight losses for Australian teams against Kiwi foes.

The game was closer than the scoreline suggests, with just two points separating the teams with five minutes remaining.

But Chiefs playmaker Damian McKenzie scored his second try after the final siren to claim a bonus‑point win and ensure the Waratahs left empty‑handed.

The loss continued another miserable record ‑ no Australian team has been able to win on New Zealand soil in more than three years.

In another match last night, the Highlanders defeated the Reds 18-15, the Brumbies beat the Bulls 38-28 while the Lions defeated the Stormers 26-23.

Defending champions, Crusaders are leading the points table with 50 points, the Lions are in second place with 40 points, the Waratahs are sitting in third place with 31 points while the Hurricanes are fourth with 45 points.

Source:RadioNZ

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