The Chiefs have beaten the Sharks 37-29 in a fast-paced and entertaining match in Hamilton.
The Chiefs' forwards built early momentum; their backs running in three quick tries to lead 24 -0 inside the first quarter.
But the visitors' Springbok heavy forward pack rallied and capitalised on a series penalties to send their loose forwards crashing over for three tries of their own before the end of the half.
At the break the Chiefs lead 24-19.
Last year's finalists traded bonus point tries in the second half, but goal kicking proved the difference between the sides, the Chiefs landed three penalties and four conversions to Patrick Lambie's three conversions and a penalty.
The bonus-point victory moved the 2012 champions to 35 points and back in charge of the New Zealand conference ahead of the Blues.
